N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1 • A R B O R D AY. O R G
Giant Sequoia Sequoiadendron giganteum
This is not your ordinary backyard tree, but that is part of the giant sequoia’s charm. Although sequoias are huge in their natural habitat in California, those in landscape situations grow fairly slowly and will be much smaller for many human lifetimes. The longevity, beauty, and fame of sequoia combine to make it an interesting specimen tree anywhere space, climate, and soil conditions allow. In the wild, sequoias can be found in only about 75 groves in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains within a very limited range of less than 36,000 acres. Planted specimens, however, are now growing successfully throughout the world.
overlapping on lower part of twig, but individually protruding 1/8 to ¼ of an inch near the end of the branch.
CONES: Reddish-brown, egg- or
PLANTING: Suitable in hardiness
barrel-shaped, with pitted scales. About 2 to 3½ inches in length.
LEAVES: Awl-shaped, evergreen needles that are bluish-green in color. Tightly packed and
BARK: Reddish-brown and spongy
in texture. Becomes thick and deeply furrowed with age.
FORM: A very large tree at maturity, eventually reaching 100–200 feet in height. A single, straight trunk that flares at the base, with a relatively narrow and triangular crown, especially when young.
WILDLIFE VALUE: Primarily
used for shelter. White-headed woodpeckers and flickers nest in the tree’s cavities. Mature cones are eaten by chickarees.
To purchase or learn more about this tree and others,visit arborday.org/giantsequoia.
zones 6–8 in large spaces that are free of overhead wires. Prefers full sun and acidic soil that is deep, moist, and well-drained.
Scan to go directly to the giant sequoia in our online Tree Nursery.
Engaging Students and Protecting Waterways in Michigan
An official publication of
.
We guarantee delivery of healthy trees to our members. Please check ordering deadlines and shipping dates at arborday.org/shipping. If you need to contact us about your trees, call 888-448-7337, email us at info@arborday.org, or drop us a note at Member Services, Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12th St., Lincoln, NE 68508. We want your tree planting efforts to be successful!
© 2021 Arbor Day Foundation. The Foundation sometimes exchanges mailing lists with selected organizations with offers of interest to our members. If you do not want your name included, just write, email, or call Member Services and tell us not to exchange your name.
TREE CAMPUS® K–12
50131801
TREE BASICS
ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION CHIEF EXECUTIVE,
Matt Harris
Preparing Your Trees for Winter
THIS HAS BEEN A YEAR OF CHALLENGES for nearly everyone. Each of us has faced a variety of issues and has overcome these hurdles in a multitude of ways. But while we all deal with our individual situations, one thing has unified us: Trees. Throughout the year, we have all joined together to help plant trees for a greener future. From government officials to YouTube stars to each of you … our loyal members … people are stepping up to support tree planting and be part of the solution to many of the issues we face worldwide. Because, even though it is often hard to find something everyone can agree on, that something is always the benefits of trees. Just as we’ve come together this year to plant trees across the world, we’ve also engaged the next generation of tree planters. Inspiring today’s youth — both inside and outside the classroom — is critical to ensuring this important work carries on. These children are not only the “why” of today’s tree planting but also the “how” of tomorrow’s efforts. Their connection to nature from a young age will drive a desire to care for our natural spaces for their children and grandchildren to enjoy. They will grow to be just as dedicated to neighborhood trees and natural forests as you are. They will be the ones to continue this legacy of work. I’m proud that we are ending this year strong. Our shared passion for trees has furthered the Foundation’s mission and helped to improve the future of our planet. And I’m excited to see what next year holds.
INSPIRING
A New Generation of Tree Planters TODAY’S YOUTH ARE SET TO INHERIT a world full of environmental challenges. Trees are one major part of the solution — and all across the country, a passionate new generation of planters is getting involved and taking action. One recent example can be found at the Sankofa Community Orchard in Richmond, Virginia. The orchard was founded to provide increased green space and healthy food options to residents near the Midlothian Turnpike, a commercial, multi-lane highway. Last April, members of Groundwork RVA, a youth development program focused on environmental justice, planted and distributed 100 fruit trees in the orchard. The planting was organized by the Arbor Day Foundation and sponsored by Capital One. “All of us were happy to be out, COVID-safe, making Richmond greener and healthier for a neighborhood that needs it so much,” said Will Isenberg, one of the event’s 20 volunteers. The planting will not only create a buffer for car exhaust and noise, but will also beautify the area, improve its resilience to flooding, and make delicious fruit available to area residents. While young people were the driving force behind the event, people of all ages were inspired to join in too. “We met an older couple who came out to help. Neither of them were really up to planting, but they had great stories. One of them was how much they had always want to have ‘an apple tree of their own,’” another volunteer said. “We had planned on planting all the fruit trees, but made a quick change so that when they left, it was with their apple tree in tow.” The event was one of many youth-driven planting efforts in 2021 — a trend we know will continue into the future. It is inspiring to see the next generation take on important issues and use trees as part of the solution.
2 ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
On the cover: Schools across Michigan are engaged in tree planting to protect the state’s water quality and provide enriched conservation experiences for students.
AS THE NIGHTS GET LONGER and the temperatures drop, it’s important to take steps to ensure your trees are ready for winter. With a little work, you can help them make it through the cold months and thrive in the spring.
Allow 3" clearance between mulch and trunk
THE MAGIC OF MULCH While mulch serves many purposes during the warmer months, it is also critical in the winter. A good layer of this organic matter will insulate the roots of a tree from the colder temperatures. Mulch should be spread around the base of each tree, extending out to the edge of the tree’s crown (or about 3 feet across) in a layer about 2–4 inches thick. Always make sure the trunk of the tree is exposed and not covered by the mulch (about 3 inches between trunk and mulch is ideal).
Mulch should be 2"-4" deep
WINTER WATERING If you’re experiencing a dry winter, consider watering your trees. By watering just once or twice a month on days that are over 40 degrees Fahrenheit, you can keep your trees from drying out during extended periods of time with no rain or snow. This is especially important for evergreens because they do not go dormant for the season. Community Greening, winner of the Spirit of Arbor Day award, is transforming the landscape in south Florida through a new approach of family-friendly events, including live DJs and local catering.
@arborday.org
A RB OR DAY J OU RNA L
Mulch is any material placed on soil to protect it that does not cause the plant problems. Common mulches include bark, wood chips, decorative gravel, and crushed lava.
Congratulations to our Arbor Day Award Winners This year, we honored six individuals and organizations for their dedication to trees. Shannon Ramsay, Lifetime Stewardship Award Sarah Anderson, Trailblazer Award Natural Areas Conservancy, Champion of Trees Award Community Greening, Spirit of Arbor Day Award The Nature Conservancy, Headwaters Award International Paper, Friend of the Forest Award Each award winner has demonstrated a passion for tree planting and a commitment to a greener tomorrow. Learn more about what they’re doing at arborday.org/awards.
NOMINATE SOMEONE! FOLLOW US AT
Know an organization, city, or nonprofit that stands out as a true tree steward? We’re now taking nominations for our 2022 Arbor Day Awards!
facebook.com/arborday
ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
7
TREE BASICS
ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION CHIEF EXECUTIVE,
Matt Harris
Preparing Your Trees for Winter
THIS HAS BEEN A YEAR OF CHALLENGES for nearly everyone. Each of us has faced a variety of issues and has overcome these hurdles in a multitude of ways. But while we all deal with our individual situations, one thing has unified us: Trees. Throughout the year, we have all joined together to help plant trees for a greener future. From government officials to YouTube stars to each of you … our loyal members … people are stepping up to support tree planting and be part of the solution to many of the issues we face worldwide. Because, even though it is often hard to find something everyone can agree on, that something is always the benefits of trees. Just as we’ve come together this year to plant trees across the world, we’ve also engaged the next generation of tree planters. Inspiring today’s youth — both inside and outside the classroom — is critical to ensuring this important work carries on. These children are not only the “why” of today’s tree planting but also the “how” of tomorrow’s efforts. Their connection to nature from a young age will drive a desire to care for our natural spaces for their children and grandchildren to enjoy. They will grow to be just as dedicated to neighborhood trees and natural forests as you are. They will be the ones to continue this legacy of work. I’m proud that we are ending this year strong. Our shared passion for trees has furthered the Foundation’s mission and helped to improve the future of our planet. And I’m excited to see what next year holds.
INSPIRING
A New Generation of Tree Planters TODAY’S YOUTH ARE SET TO INHERIT a world full of environmental challenges. Trees are one major part of the solution — and all across the country, a passionate new generation of planters is getting involved and taking action. One recent example can be found at the Sankofa Community Orchard in Richmond, Virginia. The orchard was founded to provide increased green space and healthy food options to residents near the Midlothian Turnpike, a commercial, multi-lane highway. Last April, members of Groundwork RVA, a youth development program focused on environmental justice, planted and distributed 100 fruit trees in the orchard. The planting was organized by the Arbor Day Foundation and sponsored by Capital One. “All of us were happy to be out, COVID-safe, making Richmond greener and healthier for a neighborhood that needs it so much,” said Will Isenberg, one of the event’s 20 volunteers. The planting will not only create a buffer for car exhaust and noise, but will also beautify the area, improve its resilience to flooding, and make delicious fruit available to area residents. While young people were the driving force behind the event, people of all ages were inspired to join in too. “We met an older couple who came out to help. Neither of them were really up to planting, but they had great stories. One of them was how much they had always want to have ‘an apple tree of their own,’” another volunteer said. “We had planned on planting all the fruit trees, but made a quick change so that when they left, it was with their apple tree in tow.” The event was one of many youth-driven planting efforts in 2021 — a trend we know will continue into the future. It is inspiring to see the next generation take on important issues and use trees as part of the solution.
2 ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
On the cover: Schools across Michigan are engaged in tree planting to protect the state’s water quality and provide enriched conservation experiences for students.
AS THE NIGHTS GET LONGER and the temperatures drop, it’s important to take steps to ensure your trees are ready for winter. With a little work, you can help them make it through the cold months and thrive in the spring.
Allow 3" clearance between mulch and trunk
THE MAGIC OF MULCH While mulch serves many purposes during the warmer months, it is also critical in the winter. A good layer of this organic matter will insulate the roots of a tree from the colder temperatures. Mulch should be spread around the base of each tree, extending out to the edge of the tree’s crown (or about 3 feet across) in a layer about 2–4 inches thick. Always make sure the trunk of the tree is exposed and not covered by the mulch (about 3 inches between trunk and mulch is ideal).
Mulch should be 2"-4" deep
WINTER WATERING If you’re experiencing a dry winter, consider watering your trees. By watering just once or twice a month on days that are over 40 degrees Fahrenheit, you can keep your trees from drying out during extended periods of time with no rain or snow. This is especially important for evergreens because they do not go dormant for the season. Community Greening, winner of the Spirit of Arbor Day award, is transforming the landscape in south Florida through a new approach of family-friendly events, including live DJs and local catering.
@arborday.org
A RB OR DAY J OU RNA L
Mulch is any material placed on soil to protect it that does not cause the plant problems. Common mulches include bark, wood chips, decorative gravel, and crushed lava.
Congratulations to our Arbor Day Award Winners This year, we honored six individuals and organizations for their dedication to trees. Shannon Ramsay, Lifetime Stewardship Award Sarah Anderson, Trailblazer Award Natural Areas Conservancy, Champion of Trees Award Community Greening, Spirit of Arbor Day Award The Nature Conservancy, Headwaters Award International Paper, Friend of the Forest Award Each award winner has demonstrated a passion for tree planting and a commitment to a greener tomorrow. Learn more about what they’re doing at arborday.org/awards.
NOMINATE SOMEONE! FOLLOW US AT
Know an organization, city, or nonprofit that stands out as a true tree steward? We’re now taking nominations for our 2022 Arbor Day Awards!
facebook.com/arborday
ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
7
Gifts that Give Back MAKE A LASTING IMPACT this holiday season by purchasing gifts for friends and family from the Arbor Day Foundation. Each item in our online store plants a tree in a forest in need — and engages your loved ones in the all-important mission of environmental stewardship. • Trees in Celebration: Have trees planted in honor of friends and family members with our Trees in Celebration program! Each donation includes a personalized certificate. • Trees in Memory: Pay tribute to lost loved ones, and help their legacy live on, by having trees planted in their memory in one of our nation’s forests. Each donation includes a personalized sympathy card. • Give-A-Tree® Cards: Our bestselling Give-A-Tree® cards feature beautiful designs and inform the recipient that a tree has been planted in their honor. Cards can be purchased individually or in packs of 10. • Arbor Day® Coffee: Surprise the coffee lover in your life with one of our several delicious blends. Each bag comes from shadegrown farms and plants a tree in a rain forest in need. • Apparel: Spread the message with a selection of stylish, eco-friendly shirts and hats.
Shop online at arborday.org/holiday
Charitable Gift Annuities — A Priceless Legacy TREES THRIVE FOR GENERATIONS, and so can your support of the Arbor Day Foundation with the help of a Charitable Gift Annuity. As you receive consistent retirement income, you’ll feel good knowing that your gift will also leave a legacy for years to come. Charitable Gift Annuities offer retirement income, a large portion of it being tax-free. For example, Patricia, age 84, made a $75,000 donation to the Arbor Day Foundation through a Charitable Gift Annuity. She receives $5,550 (7.4%) annually, with $4,739 of it tax-free. Additionally, at tax time, she can take a $40,392 charitable deduction that can be spread over several years, if necessary.
LEARN MORE. NO OBLIGATION. Please provide me with a confidential quote for an Arbor Day Foundation Charitable Gift Annuity. Birth Date / / I am considering a gift annuity of $
($10,000 minimum)
Name
To receive additional information and a confidential quote on a Charitable Gift Annuity, please complete and mail the coupon, call Chloé Sweet at 888-448-7337, ext. 9612, or email giftplanning@arborday.org.
Address City/State/Zip Telephone ( Email
)
Michael began a $15,000 Charitable Gift Annuity at age 72. He receives a 5.2% return on his gift for the rest of his life. Nearly 75% of the payment is income tax-free. Additionally, Michael receives a charitable tax deduction of $6,673 for his gift.
Best time to call 08654 100
Mail to: Arbor Day Foundation 6 ARBOR DAY • JULY/AUGUST 2020 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org 211 N. 12th St. • Lincoln, NE 68508
Nebraska City, Nebraska
FOR RESERVATIONS TO STAY AT LIED LODGE: arbordayfarm.org • 800-546-5433
Traveling Exhibit Finds a Permanent Home in Nebraska AFTER SPENDING SEVERAL YEARS on the road, the Arbor Day Foundation’s traveling exhibit “Exploring Trees Inside and Out” has found a permanent home in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Foundation donated the interactive exhibit to the Lincoln Children’s Museum, located just a few blocks from its downtown headquarters, in late 2020 — and executive director Tara Knuth said it’s quickly become a visitor favorite. “It’s already added so much to the museum. Kids can climb and explore and learn about nature, and they just love it,” Knuth said. “It’s the perfect exhibit for our space, and we couldn’t be more thankful for the timing of this gift.”
“Exploring Trees Inside and Out” features 2,500 square feet of nature-related activities for kids to enjoy.
“Exploring Trees Inside and Out” first hit the road in 2008 to educate children about the role trees play in the environment. Visitors can sit in a giant leaf to experience “photosynthesis,” crawl through a log to understand animal habitats, play in a larger-than-life bird’s nest complete with eggs and branches, smell scents from various trees, and more. More than 1 million children experienced the 2,500square-foot exhibit as it traveled across the country to museums, malls, and other public arenas. After the tour ended, the Arbor Day Foundation wanted to find a way to keep that momentum going. Donating the exhibit to the Lincoln Children’s Museum, a popular attraction for families and schools across Nebraska, was the perfect way to do so. “We want all children to be able to connect with trees, whether they live in the city or visit Arbor Day Farm. This partnership is an important step in expanding our engagement and reach,” said Dan Lambe, the Foundation’s president. “It was incredibly fulfilling for us to give back to our community in this way, especially during such a challenging year.” Live outside of Nebraska? You can get in on the fun, too. Visit arborday.org/kids for online games and activities.
* The illustrations above are examples; exact numbers are subject to change based on date of gift.
For more information, please mail in the coupon or call Chloè Sweet at 888-448-7337 ext. 9612.
ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
3
Gifts that Give Back MAKE A LASTING IMPACT this holiday season by purchasing gifts for friends and family from the Arbor Day Foundation. Each item in our online store plants a tree in a forest in need — and engages your loved ones in the all-important mission of environmental stewardship. • Trees in Celebration: Have trees planted in honor of friends and family members with our Trees in Celebration program! Each donation includes a personalized certificate. • Trees in Memory: Pay tribute to lost loved ones, and help their legacy live on, by having trees planted in their memory in one of our nation’s forests. Each donation includes a personalized sympathy card. • Give-A-Tree® Cards: Our bestselling Give-A-Tree® cards feature beautiful designs and inform the recipient that a tree has been planted in their honor. Cards can be purchased individually or in packs of 10. • Arbor Day® Coffee: Surprise the coffee lover in your life with one of our several delicious blends. Each bag comes from shadegrown farms and plants a tree in a rain forest in need. • Apparel: Spread the message with a selection of stylish, eco-friendly shirts and hats.
Shop online at arborday.org/holiday
Charitable Gift Annuities — A Priceless Legacy TREES THRIVE FOR GENERATIONS, and so can your support of the Arbor Day Foundation with the help of a Charitable Gift Annuity. As you receive consistent retirement income, you’ll feel good knowing that your gift will also leave a legacy for years to come. Charitable Gift Annuities offer retirement income, a large portion of it being tax-free. For example, Patricia, age 84, made a $75,000 donation to the Arbor Day Foundation through a Charitable Gift Annuity. She receives $5,550 (7.4%) annually, with $4,739 of it tax-free. Additionally, at tax time, she can take a $40,392 charitable deduction that can be spread over several years, if necessary.
LEARN MORE. NO OBLIGATION. Please provide me with a confidential quote for an Arbor Day Foundation Charitable Gift Annuity. Birth Date / / I am considering a gift annuity of $
($10,000 minimum)
Name
To receive additional information and a confidential quote on a Charitable Gift Annuity, please complete and mail the coupon, call Chloé Sweet at 888-448-7337, ext. 9612, or email giftplanning@arborday.org.
Address City/State/Zip Telephone ( Email
)
Michael began a $15,000 Charitable Gift Annuity at age 72. He receives a 5.2% return on his gift for the rest of his life. Nearly 75% of the payment is income tax-free. Additionally, Michael receives a charitable tax deduction of $6,673 for his gift.
Best time to call 08654 100
Mail to: Arbor Day Foundation 6 ARBOR DAY • JULY/AUGUST 2020 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org 211 N. 12th St. • Lincoln, NE 68508
Nebraska City, Nebraska
FOR RESERVATIONS TO STAY AT LIED LODGE: arbordayfarm.org • 800-546-5433
Traveling Exhibit Finds a Permanent Home in Nebraska AFTER SPENDING SEVERAL YEARS on the road, the Arbor Day Foundation’s traveling exhibit “Exploring Trees Inside and Out” has found a permanent home in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Foundation donated the interactive exhibit to the Lincoln Children’s Museum, located just a few blocks from its downtown headquarters, in late 2020 — and executive director Tara Knuth said it’s quickly become a visitor favorite. “It’s already added so much to the museum. Kids can climb and explore and learn about nature, and they just love it,” Knuth said. “It’s the perfect exhibit for our space, and we couldn’t be more thankful for the timing of this gift.”
“Exploring Trees Inside and Out” features 2,500 square feet of nature-related activities for kids to enjoy.
“Exploring Trees Inside and Out” first hit the road in 2008 to educate children about the role trees play in the environment. Visitors can sit in a giant leaf to experience “photosynthesis,” crawl through a log to understand animal habitats, play in a larger-than-life bird’s nest complete with eggs and branches, smell scents from various trees, and more. More than 1 million children experienced the 2,500square-foot exhibit as it traveled across the country to museums, malls, and other public arenas. After the tour ended, the Arbor Day Foundation wanted to find a way to keep that momentum going. Donating the exhibit to the Lincoln Children’s Museum, a popular attraction for families and schools across Nebraska, was the perfect way to do so. “We want all children to be able to connect with trees, whether they live in the city or visit Arbor Day Farm. This partnership is an important step in expanding our engagement and reach,” said Dan Lambe, the Foundation’s president. “It was incredibly fulfilling for us to give back to our community in this way, especially during such a challenging year.” Live outside of Nebraska? You can get in on the fun, too. Visit arborday.org/kids for online games and activities.
* The illustrations above are examples; exact numbers are subject to change based on date of gift.
For more information, please mail in the coupon or call Chloè Sweet at 888-448-7337 ext. 9612.
ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
3
Photo Credit: Huron Pines
Michigan’s School Forests A COMMITMENT TO TOMORROW
Photo Credit: Huron Pines
AS MANY ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION MEMBERS and supporters can attest, a passion for trees and conservation commonly begins at a young age. Memories from your childhood help to strengthen that connection to the natural world. As the world changes, however, it is becoming increasingly difficult to ensure that children have those important moments in nature.
On the day before Arbor Day, 70 middle school and high school students planted the first 300 seedlings. Another 100 trees were planted by members of the community, and a local partner was contracted to plant the remaining trees.
Schools across Michigan are working to ensure their students are able to not only interact with trees but actually grab a shovel and plant them. With support from the U.S. Forest Service, the Arbor Day Foundation, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and local partners, 10 schools are planting a total of 110,000 trees in school forests.
In addition to Frankfort-Elberta Area School, nine other schools are working to implement a personalized stewardship plan with the help of local partners. Many of these schools began tree planting efforts this fall, and all of the trees are being sourced from seedling nurseries right in Michigan.
Each of the schools is working with a local forestry partner and has developed a forest stewardship plan. This plan will serve as a roadmap for the schools to appropriately manage and protect their school forest while also helping students enjoy it.
THE FIRST OF THE SCHOOL FORESTS Frankfort-Elberta Area School began implementing their stewardship plan in the fall of last year, with removal of invasive species and harvesting many of the older red pines on the property. Then in the spring, planting began in the 40-acre forest. A variety of trees were planned for the space — including oak, hickory, sassafras, and tuliptree — to add diversity to the once solely red pine forest and adapt to the changing climate in the area.
NINE OTHER PROJECTS IN THE WORKS
• Holman Elementary School, Houghton County | 6,300 trees • Chassell Township School, Houghton County | 1,875 trees • Forest Park Schools, Iron County | 13,500 trees • North Dickinson County School, Dickinson County | 13,500 trees • Tahquamenon Area Schools, Luce County | 4,500 trees • Vanderbilt Area Schools, Otsego County | 9,900 trees • Reed City Area Schools, Osceola County | 22,500 trees • St. Louis Public Schools, Gratiot County | 22,500 trees • Knabusch Math & Science Center, Monroe County | 11,500 trees
CERTIFIED FAMILY FORESTS ll 10 of these schools are Certified Family Forests through the American Tree Farm System. This designation — given to woodlands 10-20,000 acres in size that are managed according to Tree Farm’s Standards of Sustainability — is a testament to each of the schools’ commitment to transparent and sustainable management of these public forests.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TREE PLANTERS The future of our planet relies on our ability to nurture a passion for the environment in today’s youth. By planting trees and engaging with nature, the elementary, middle, and high school students of Michigan are building a lifelong connection with trees that will mean a better tomorrow for all of us. And with these school forests, each school is on track to apply for Tree Campus® K–12 recognition. This designation will help to keep the schools active in not only caring for the forests but also experiencing firsthand the benefits trees provide. Learn more about how this program is engaging youth across the U.S. at arborday.org/k12.
CONTRIBUTING TO THE STATE’S CLEAN WATER These 10 projects are part of a larger effort to protect water quality throughout the state, as Michigan’s urban and rural forests work hard to filter runoff and ensure cleaner waterways. The school forests will be sustainably and responsibly managed, ensuring a measurable impact on water quality for generations to come.
Photo Credit: Huron Pines
4 ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
5
Photo Credit: Huron Pines
Michigan’s School Forests A COMMITMENT TO TOMORROW
Photo Credit: Huron Pines
AS MANY ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION MEMBERS and supporters can attest, a passion for trees and conservation commonly begins at a young age. Memories from your childhood help to strengthen that connection to the natural world. As the world changes, however, it is becoming increasingly difficult to ensure that children have those important moments in nature.
On the day before Arbor Day, 70 middle school and high school students planted the first 300 seedlings. Another 100 trees were planted by members of the community, and a local partner was contracted to plant the remaining trees.
Schools across Michigan are working to ensure their students are able to not only interact with trees but actually grab a shovel and plant them. With support from the U.S. Forest Service, the Arbor Day Foundation, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and local partners, 10 schools are planting a total of 110,000 trees in school forests.
In addition to Frankfort-Elberta Area School, nine other schools are working to implement a personalized stewardship plan with the help of local partners. Many of these schools began tree planting efforts this fall, and all of the trees are being sourced from seedling nurseries right in Michigan.
Each of the schools is working with a local forestry partner and has developed a forest stewardship plan. This plan will serve as a roadmap for the schools to appropriately manage and protect their school forest while also helping students enjoy it.
THE FIRST OF THE SCHOOL FORESTS Frankfort-Elberta Area School began implementing their stewardship plan in the fall of last year, with removal of invasive species and harvesting many of the older red pines on the property. Then in the spring, planting began in the 40-acre forest. A variety of trees were planned for the space — including oak, hickory, sassafras, and tuliptree — to add diversity to the once solely red pine forest and adapt to the changing climate in the area.
NINE OTHER PROJECTS IN THE WORKS
• Holman Elementary School, Houghton County | 6,300 trees • Chassell Township School, Houghton County | 1,875 trees • Forest Park Schools, Iron County | 13,500 trees • North Dickinson County School, Dickinson County | 13,500 trees • Tahquamenon Area Schools, Luce County | 4,500 trees • Vanderbilt Area Schools, Otsego County | 9,900 trees • Reed City Area Schools, Osceola County | 22,500 trees • St. Louis Public Schools, Gratiot County | 22,500 trees • Knabusch Math & Science Center, Monroe County | 11,500 trees
CERTIFIED FAMILY FORESTS ll 10 of these schools are Certified Family Forests through the American Tree Farm System. This designation — given to woodlands 10-20,000 acres in size that are managed according to Tree Farm’s Standards of Sustainability — is a testament to each of the schools’ commitment to transparent and sustainable management of these public forests.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TREE PLANTERS The future of our planet relies on our ability to nurture a passion for the environment in today’s youth. By planting trees and engaging with nature, the elementary, middle, and high school students of Michigan are building a lifelong connection with trees that will mean a better tomorrow for all of us. And with these school forests, each school is on track to apply for Tree Campus® K–12 recognition. This designation will help to keep the schools active in not only caring for the forests but also experiencing firsthand the benefits trees provide. Learn more about how this program is engaging youth across the U.S. at arborday.org/k12.
CONTRIBUTING TO THE STATE’S CLEAN WATER These 10 projects are part of a larger effort to protect water quality throughout the state, as Michigan’s urban and rural forests work hard to filter runoff and ensure cleaner waterways. The school forests will be sustainably and responsibly managed, ensuring a measurable impact on water quality for generations to come.
Photo Credit: Huron Pines
4 ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
ARBOR DAY • November/December 2021 • 888-448-7337 • arborday.org
5
N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1 • A R B O R D AY. O R G
Giant Sequoia Sequoiadendron giganteum
This is not your ordinary backyard tree, but that is part of the giant sequoia’s charm. Although sequoias are huge in their natural habitat in California, those in landscape situations grow fairly slowly and will be much smaller for many human lifetimes. The longevity, beauty, and fame of sequoia combine to make it an interesting specimen tree anywhere space, climate, and soil conditions allow. In the wild, sequoias can be found in only about 75 groves in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains within a very limited range of less than 36,000 acres. Planted specimens, however, are now growing successfully throughout the world.
overlapping on lower part of twig, but individually protruding 1/8 to ¼ of an inch near the end of the branch.
CONES: Reddish-brown, egg- or
PLANTING: Suitable in hardiness
barrel-shaped, with pitted scales. About 2 to 3½ inches in length.
LEAVES: Awl-shaped, evergreen needles that are bluish-green in color. Tightly packed and
BARK: Reddish-brown and spongy
in texture. Becomes thick and deeply furrowed with age.
FORM: A very large tree at maturity, eventually reaching 100–200 feet in height. A single, straight trunk that flares at the base, with a relatively narrow and triangular crown, especially when young.
WILDLIFE VALUE: Primarily
used for shelter. White-headed woodpeckers and flickers nest in the tree’s cavities. Mature cones are eaten by chickarees.
To purchase or learn more about this tree and others,visit arborday.org/giantsequoia.
zones 6–8 in large spaces that are free of overhead wires. Prefers full sun and acidic soil that is deep, moist, and well-drained.
Scan to go directly to the giant sequoia in our online Tree Nursery.
Engaging Students and Protecting Waterways in Michigan
An official publication of
.
We guarantee delivery of healthy trees to our members. Please check ordering deadlines and shipping dates at arborday.org/shipping. If you need to contact us about your trees, call 888-448-7337, email us at info@arborday.org, or drop us a note at Member Services, Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12th St., Lincoln, NE 68508. We want your tree planting efforts to be successful!
© 2021 Arbor Day Foundation. The Foundation sometimes exchanges mailing lists with selected organizations with offers of interest to our members. If you do not want your name included, just write, email, or call Member Services and tell us not to exchange your name.
TREE CAMPUS® K–12
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