Tree day is a winner with the kids

STUDENTS from the Bothwell District School recently got out their shovels to take part in the annual Schools Tree Day.

The annual event aims to inspire the next generation to engage with and appreciate Tasmania’s natural environment, offering students a fun and interactive way to understand the significance of local forests while making a positive impact in their community.

Bothwell District High School students teamed up with Sustainable Timber Tasmania foresters to plant seedlings, getting their hands dirty and learning about the importance of Tasmanian forests firsthand. The entire school community participated, with Grades 9 and 10 students leading the initiative and helping younger students cultivate the soil, dig holes, and plant seedlings.

Throughout the day, foresters shared their expertise on native species and sustainable forestry practices, guiding students through the life cycle of a eucalypt and emphasising the importance of forest conservation.

Bothwell District School Principal Erika Boas welcomed the collaborative learning opportunity for her students and staff.

“Working closely with Sustainable Timber Tasmania foresters enabled our young people to learn more about the trees and shrubs that they were planting and how to maintain their care moving forward,” she said.

More than 50 seedlings were planted on the school grounds that students and visitors can enjoy for years to come.

“This initiative enables students to actively contribute to Tasmania’s forest conservation efforts while gaining practical insights into sustainable forestry practices,” said Suzette Weeding, General Manager Conservation and Land Management at Sustainable Timber Tasmania.

“Our goal is for students to take home a fresh appreciation for the environment and empower them to make a positive impact within their community.”

Schools across Tasmania are participating in Schools Tree Day which is aligned with National Tree Day.

A total of 3500 native seedlings, grown at Sustainable Timber Tasmania’s Perth Nursery, have been gifted to more than 60 schools across the state which will be hosting planting events throughout August.

Below: 
Planting for the future: Bothwell students planting some of the 50 trees that will landscape their school.