Daughters of the American Revolution to plant forest April 11
Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 1 month, 2 weeks AGO
The Daughters of the American Revolution will host a community planting event from 1-4 p.m. April 11 in Coeur d’Alene to establish a new DAR Forest honoring the legacy of U.S. Air Force Maj. Doral L. McGee, who served 20 years in the Air Force. The forest is located on private land he homesteaded, making the tribute especially meaningful. He is remembered for his military service as well as his devotion to family, his service efforts in North Idaho and his love of the land.
Courtesy photo
The Daughters of the American Revolution will host a community planting event from 1 to 4 p.m. on April 11 at French Gulch Road and McGee Way in Coeur d’Alene to establish a new DAR Forest honoring the legacy of U.S. Air Force Maj. Doral L. McGee.
Volunteers of all ages have the opportunity to participate in planting 600 evergreen seedlings, helping to create a living tribute rooted in service, patriotism and environmental stewardship.
The DAR Forest program dates back to 1939, when the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution launched the “Penny Pines” initiative as part of its Golden Jubilee celebration. Through this effort, supported in part by the Civilian Conservation Corps, communities across the nation contributed to reforestation projects by funding and planting trees. Today, DAR Forests continues that legacy, promoting conservation, education and remembrance.
Idaho DAR chapters have played a significant role in reforestation efforts across the state. Recent initiatives include Project Pinecone (2024-2025), which raised over $25,000 to support planting more than 200,000 seedlings in the Sawtooth National Forest following the Wapiti Fire, as well as earlier restoration work following the Trinity Ridge Fire.
This newest forest is dedicated to the memory of the late McGee, who served 20 years in the Air Force. The forest is on private land he once homesteaded, making the tribute especially meaningful. McGee is remembered not only for his military service, but also for his devotion to his family, his service efforts in North Idaho and his love of the land.
“This forest represents more than trees. It reflects a legacy of service, stewardship and deep-rooted patriotism,” Trina Caudle, Pleasantview Chapter regent and McGee's daughter, said in a Monday news release. "We are honored to invite the community to help us bring this vision to life.”
Participants are encouraged to bring muck boots or waterproof shoes, shovels or trowels and a spirit of adventure. The event is family-friendly, with local youth organizations invited to join and promises an afternoon of fresh air, community connection and hands-on conservation.