The Northampton Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously Oct. 8 to fund a Smith College-led project that will identify and plant 20 trees in the Mill River flood footprint to commemorate victims and to create a digital story map linking the plantings to historical accounts.

Gabby (Smith College) described the project's dual aim: remembering lives lost in the May 1874 flood and advancing climate resilience and flood planning. "The intention with this project is both backward looking and forward looking," Gabby said, detailing prior commemorations in 2024 and ongoing work to place trees at historically meaningful sites in Northampton and Williamsburg.

Three Smith College students who are supporting the project described community engagement and planting activities. One student said, "The tree we planted on Monday was dedicated to Mary Carter," and described planting events that include local hosts who live along the river.

Martha moved to fund the Mill River Flood Tree Memorial at the requested $3,000 level; Julia seconded. Sarah conducted a roll-call vote; all members present voted yes.

Gabby told the committee the $3,000 would help identify, site and acquire 20 trees now, as part of a longer-term plan that she said could eventually grow to about 145 trees but noted that the immediate request was for 20. The committee discussed stewardship and host arrangements; Gabby said hosts are identified organically through schools, local donors and community members.

The grant includes a community education and digital component; students will maintain and update a story map linking each tree to its dedication and historical context. Smith College students and community volunteers will participate in planting and interpretive programming.