Steve Masterson, an arborist at the Polly Hill Arboretum in West Tisbury, is raising money to ride in the STIHL Tour des Trees, a week-long, 500-mile, cross-country cycling event. Considered America’s largest fundraiser for tree research, the tour benefits the Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund, an international charitable organization.

The tour officially rolls out from New York city on July 19 and winds through eight states in the Northeast, including a challenge route into Maine, before culminating in a grand finale ceremony at the Temple in Roger Williams Park, Providence, R.I. on July 25. Recent tours have cycled through the Midwest and Northern California.

To participate, riders must raise a minimum of $3,500, which helps to fund scientific research grants and educational scholarships administered by the Tree Fund. Corporate sponsorships offset the cost of food, housing and logistics along the tour route.

Mr. Masterson has so far raised $1,500 of his $3,500 goal. To help him reach his goal and learn more about the tour, visit stihltourdestrees.org.