The first our first of many guest speakers, Amanda was a fountain of knowledge who introduced us to the world of trees in our urban forest. With our class we examined the environment around our school, which is in constant use by students and other community members. Specifically, we were instructed on how to properly mulch some local trees, which would stand to remind us of the importance of this type of maintenance as we pass by them on our way to class each day.
From there, we examined the tree species in our immediate neighborhood from the honey locust, to the silver maple, and even a few Kentucky coffee trees. From this experience, we can now properly identify some common native tree species in Toronto and are aware of their importance to society and biodiversity.
The information that Amanda shared with us helped us to comprehend the importance of trees in our city. She helped us understand just how, in an urban environment, they reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air and they are a cost-efficient way to decrease pollution and improve air quality. Not only are trees good for the environment, but they're also important for social and recreational activities, helping with human health, providing shade and a place to exercise and even as an important economic factor, benefiting properties by raising property values. Her knowledge, encouraged us to make a difference in the urban forest environment!
After our visit with Amanda, we were able to a complete our own tree project - a tree identification checklist and a how-to guide to properly explain how to mulch, prune, and water a tree. Amanda’s talk was very beneficial - without her background information, I don’t know how we would have done it! We appreciate the time she took out of a very busy schedule to share her knowledge which will remain with us throughout our lives.
Katrina von Hahn, Allison Goddard, and Alex Karis are students at Greenwood College School, a co-educational day school in Toronto.