Falls 5th-graders learn what it takes to make a tree

“It was actually pretty fun; the worst thing will be gettin’ the mud off my shoes.”
That’s what Adam Salo had to say about planting trees in the fields behind the playground at Falls Elementary school.
The Tuesday community project was coordinated to take place during Arbor Month.
And when Salo and classmate Matt Smith were asked why it was important to plant trees, they got it right.
“To filter air, to provide shade and block the wind,” said Smith. The two also explained that the recent forest fires in the country emphasized to them the importance of replacing trees.
The annual tree planting by local fifth graders is an endeavor made possible by “Boise Timber Talk,” a diverse team of Boise employee volunteers funded with a $950 grant underwritten by “GreenWorks!” and matched with funds from Boise Cascade LLC. The Timber Talk team is involved with all local elementary grades throughout the year, teaching students at different comprehension levels about the wise management of resources.
Forester Dave Austin said he hoped each child would go home with “an appreciation of trees.”
“They will watch these trees grow,” Austin said. “They can come back at their 20th reunion and remember they had a part in this.”

Austin talked to the students about the three Ps of planting: planning, preparation and planting. He explained that the patterned planning for their plantings took place a year ago and required the consideration of sun, space and soil for the 19 white spruce seedlings. Four maple trees were also planted in the school’s picnic area.

He noted that the digging on this project was made much easier by Duane Sjoblom who prepared the holes in advance.

Austin demonstrated for the youngsters the manner in which to judge the appropriate depth and straightness of the seedling by using the shovel’s handle as a level.
“Of course, we use a lot of trees to make paper,” Austin said. “But this is not just self-serving. Everyone needs to appreciate trees.”

The students were treated to lunch with the volunteers in the picnic area. In addition to Austin, the following individuals were instrumental in Tuesday’s school project: Howie Arch, Michelle Hebner, Pat Gray, Nathan Heibel, Dan Klocek, Terry Worthman, Mike LaClair, Leanna Hasbargen, Ann Bzdok, Sue Lucek and Chad Williams.

The theme for Arbor Month 2007 is “A Place For Every Tree.”