Sustainability is at the heart of Zumbiel’s mission, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that drive real change in our community.
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword. It’s about creating systems that last without depleting our resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy clean air, healthy environments, and the same opportunities we have today.
We’re proud to work with partners who share this commitment to sustainability. That’s why Zumbiel is excited to partner with Green Forests Work (GFW) in their mission to re-establish healthy and productive forests on lands that were previously surface mined for coal.
Zumbiel is contributing to restore 16 acres of formerly mined land near Hazard, Kentucky. This contribution supports the 2025 phase of restoring an additional 252 acres in Knott and Letcher Counties. This spring, at the project site, 176,000 trees will be planted, and 1,250 pounds of native grasses and wildflower seed will be distributed to continue the 2024 efforts to rejuvenate Kentucky’s landscapes.
Benefits of Reforestation
GFW’s efforts to restore degraded lands help promote healthy, productive forests, improve air quality, enhance biodiversity, and increase forest resiliency. By removing invasive species and planting native trees, this initiative revitalizes the environment and helps restore ecosystems to their natural state.
Additionally, the project creates valuable local job opportunities for equipment operators, nursery workers, and tree planters. Since 2009, GFW has planted more than seven million trees across 12,000 acres, highlighting the wide-reaching environmental and economic benefits of their work.
2025 Plans for GFW
At the 2025 project site, the compacted soil will be loosened, and non-native plants will be removed to help native trees and shrubs thrive. Ongoing monitoring will ensure the forests stay healthy, using methods including controlled burning and selective thinning to maintain a balanced ecosystem.
Zumbiel is proud to support GFW’s mission and looks forward to the positive impact on Kentucky’s environment and communities. Sustainability is more than just planting trees—it’s about building a healthier environment for us all.
For more information on Green Forests Work and the incredible work they’re doing to support our community, visit their website: https://www.greenforestswork.org/
