Due to the impact of humans on the landscape, it is very important to educate youth and adults alike about the importance of native landscapes. Often times, the contribution that trees provide for us to lead a healthy life is overlooked. It is well known that trees intake carbon dioxide and output oxygen, which is necessary for our respiration. Although this is very important to sustain life, trees help regulate balances in many other areas as well. First, their strong root structure not only helps root soil in place to reduce erosion but it also allows a large intake of water to help control flooding in low lying areas. Secondly, if located close to a water source, tree leaves help shade the water in the summer, helping to maintain a cooler temperature needed for fish survival. In the fall, the leaves enter into the water system, breakdown, and become suspended nutrients for aquatic species to feed on. Fallen logs and branches in the water also enhance the aquatic environment by creating new homes and hiding places for a variety of species. These are only a few examples but the list goes on and on.
In the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the tree cover has been reduced so dramatically over the years that we only have about 3% of the original 30% left. Yes, that means we have cut down 90% of the trees found within the municipality. This program has been designed to create public awareness in hopes that we can increase the tree cover to provide our community with a healthier environment. If you are interested to help out the cause, please contact us at 519-354-7310 ext. 228.
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John McGregor Secondary School preparing trays to plant seeds
WDSS testing Black Cherry seeds to grow in the municipal greenhouse
CKSS Life Skills planting black-eyed susan seeds at the municipal greenhouse
Tecumseh Public School tested Hackberry seed quality and planted American Sycamore seeds
Chatham #4 Scout troop participates in a seeding event at the municipal greenhouse
scouts were educated about the importance of our program, learned how to test seed quality, and planted native tree seeds to help out with the environment
Finished product
The cold-frame boxes are covered in leaf litter to help insulate the seeds from the cold throughout the winter and mimic a natural environment
Riverview Central School collects tallgrass prairie seed at Branton Cundick Park
The students were very excited to be helping nature by collecting seeds that they planted in tray the following week.
Students from Ridgetown High School collect tallgrass prairie seed at Turin Paw Paw
Planting Prairie Plugs at the Merlin Conservation Area with Merlin Area Public School
Big Blue Stem has a characteristic 'turkey foot' seed head
Ursuline College students plant and mulch native White Oak trees.
CKSS Environmental Club tree seed collection at O'Neil's Nature Preserve in Chatham
LKCS Students plant trees at the Dresden Cemetery
Making It Happen Program gives a hand
Ursuline College Students collecting seed under an American Sycamore tree
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