Vision

Our vision for this project was to help naturalized and give back to an outdoor space that our school uses in our local community. We saw a need for trees to be planted that were native to our area. Our second purpose for this project was to bring awareness to our school population about the importance and value of trees to humans, habitats and the climate.

Action

The small grade 7/8 class of six students began brainstorming environmental issues in our community and used their knowledge from our science classes this year to assist in deciding on their focus.

Through science class, the students had been learning about the impacts of deforestation on climate, causes of erosion along rivers, the interrelationships within habitats and invasive species. Much of this learning has occurred outdoors on our school property or at the waterfront Heritage Trail. Our school uses the waterfront park (along the St. Lawrence River) for activities throughout the year including our fall cross-country meet and multiple science classes. While at the waterfront the students observed how few trees were located along the paved trail and how little shade there was on a hot day. They decided on a tree planting project to not only create a more natural experience at the waterfront but to improve air quality, increase animal habitats and encourage traditional plants to grow.

The students researched native tree species to the area and conducted evaluations of the site, including an inventory of the current tree species present. In the process the students learned some basic tree identification and the importance of having a variety of species. Further assessment of the area included soil and drainage observations to ensure the chosen species would thrive in this location. Students priced out the cost of the seedlings and saplings and contacted local nurseries to find availability.

As part of the process, the students prepared a presentation and appeared before the town council to present their proposal for permission. They hit a road-block when they were told by the town that the original locations for the trees were on Parks Canada land and not the towns. The students then worked with members of the town to find another location by the water for the planting project.
To further prepare the site, they measured the distances between existing trees and placed markers to ensure that these new trees would have proper space to reach maturity. The students then used an aerial photograph and plotted the tree locations.

To complete their project the students planned a school-wide tree planting afternoon that would include garbage pick up along the waterfront and educating the students on the importance of trees to the environment. Our school planting day is scheduled for June 6th. We will have 56 students participating and planting 10 saplings. Each student will also be taking home their own white spruce seedling that they can plant as a family at their house.

Reflection & Celebration

This project was a great opportunity for our small class to work together in student-led inquiry. It provided students a chance to apply skills learned from lessons as well as leadership, communication and collaboration skills. The students took ownership of the project from the beginning and enjoyed gathering field data. Although we hit the road block in the middle of the project, they continued to work through the problem and learned a lot about government process and reaching out for help in the community. The students, parents and our community are proud of their accomplishments.

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