Vermilion's buoy tree back

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — Vermilion's beloved buoy tree is back for 2025 with a summer twist. Public Art Vermilion has launched the third year of its popular buoy tree project, a community-driven public art installation that celebrates the city's nautical heritage. This year, for the first time, the program includes a small mobile version of the tree that will travel around town during the summer months, starting with a placement in front of Main Street Vermilion. The full 12-foot tree will return to downtown's Fulper Lot during the holiday season. In 2023, Public Art Vermilion created its first buoy tree. "It received such positive feedback from residents, businesses and on social media (that) we brought it back in 2024," project coordinator Janet Hannaway said. Last year, more than 275 newly decorated buoys were added to the structure. Inspired by similar traditions in East Coast fishing towns, buoy trees are growing in popularity across the country. Since Vermilion launched its own version, two similar displays have appeared in other Lake Erie communities. The project was also featured in the November/December 2024 issue of Beachcombing Magazine. "Our buoy tree was created as a way of honoring Vermilion's heritage as a fishing and boating community," Hannaway said. "We originally thought this might just be a one-year fundraising project, but interest appears to be ongoing." In 2024, the buoy tree project earned the Best Main Street Committee Project Award from Heritage Ohio. Organizers noted it's a strong example of how local volunteers can use public art to strengthen community pride and beautify shared spaces. Looking ahead, Public Art Vermilion is seeking local artists to design and donate custom buoys for the annual silent auction in December. A selection of buoys will be displayed in the window at Erie and Anchor in downtown Vermilion with online bidding to begin later this year. Blank Styrofoam buoys are available for purchase at the Main Street Vermilion office, 685 Main St., or online at mainstreetvermilion.org/pav.Instructions are included, and no experience is required. Hannaway encourages participants to get creative, using paint, stickers, rope, glitter or even decoupage. "You do not have to be an artist to participate," she said. Public Art Vermilion just started hosting guided painting sessions at Main Street Vermilion starting in late July. Those who decorate buoys will be able to reclaim them once the holiday tree comes down. People can contact Hannaway at 614-403-8165 or Main Street Vermilion at 440-963-0772 for more information.