Established in 1994, the Tree Foundation of Kern and its many volunteers have planted over 14,000 trees in schools, parks, neighborhoods and along streets all over Kern County.

On Nov. 14, the foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary of greening and shading Kern County at the Metro Gallery.

The event was designed for guests to relax and enjoy wines from Croad and Rutherford vineyards, appetizers from the Bakersfield College culinary arts department, music, a silent auction and artwork.

The foundation is a non-profit organization with big name sponsors such as IKEA, Chevron, PG&E, Carosella Properties, Blacktop Cyclery, Tejon Ranch, Croad & Sunview vineyards, and Synagro.

Event coordinator and executive director of the foundation, Melissa Iger, worked hard for what she called a fantastic turnout. “I couldn’t ask for better,” Iger said.

Iger has been working for the foundation for eight years and enjoys shading the county.

“For the tree foundation, I just work hard to make this a stronger foundation, and plant more trees for Kern County,” Iger said.

Iger is a former BC student who has a certificate in horticulture. “As we all know, the air is so dirty here,” she said, “so our goal is to plant more trees to help clean our air and shade Kern County.”

Not only has Iger received some of her education at BC, she has also made a contribution to the campus. The foundation planted 100 trees for the 100th anniversary of the college.

Local artist Gregory Iger donated a tree picture for the auction and said, “ The event was beautiful! I wish I had more time to talk to the people. There are so many interesting and influential people. It makes for a lot of fun.”

Delano teacher Bethany Lopez was one of the guests in attendance and said the event was a great experience.

“This is what Bakersfield needs,” Lopez said. “Overall, it enhances the quality of life and air. Getting involved with the tree foundation was a great investment of time. I enjoy giving back to the community.”