"Planting trees means going outside and meeting other people. Outside in the fields sharing the work and cooperating, getting 'dirty'. This has an enormous potential for social reconnection and shared wisdom and knowledge. "
Absolutely. I have planted thousands of threes in my life, many in cooperation with my neighbours, but many with people i met then for the first time. In all kindsa weather and from all walks of life. Amazing what you learn.
Just go out and talk to your neighbours is a good start. Research your local terrain, judge what is to come, and plant a tree or a hundred with your neighbours. Some of them might be, (gasp!) Trump supporters. And who knows, (heaven forfend) you might like some.
There are local restoration groups all over the place. Work with them, If there isn't one in your neighbourhood, start one. Put your signs up with the local "Lost Cats" and "Yard Sale" signs. Allah willing, you might make a friend or a dozen, find a lost cat or three. And plant a buncha trees or a rain garden or a windbreak.
sidd