We have forest invaders! The “Tree of Heaven,” a fast-growing invasive species in our Bryan Dyk Nature Preserve, has been threatening the native plants in our ecosystem for years. The tree attracts destructive pests like the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive insect that damages a wide range of native and crop plants. It’s got to go!
One of our current 8th grade students, Tryson, wrote a blog about why the Tree of Heaven needs to be taken out of our ecosystem when he was in 6th grade! Here are five of his key facts about the Tree of Heaven:
Recognizing the urgent need to address this environmental menace, our school community has taken steps to combat the spread of the Tree of Heaven in our woods. Through collaboration with Great Lakes Tree Service, Tryson and his fellow students launched a project to identify and remove these invasive trees from our forest. With the generous contribution from the Hunter Bos Foundation, today we got to undertake this crucial endeavor, safeguarding the integrity of our ecosystem for future generations! Super exciting!
Our efforts don’t stop there. In the wake of the Tree of Heaven’s removal, we’re embarking on a reforestation initiative with the help of our current 6th graders, planting native trees to replenish our forest and restore its natural balance. Additionally, we’ll repurpose the harvested wood to create seating areas in our school garden and greenhouse to enhance our outdoor education program.
By raising awareness about the threat posed by invasive species like the Tree of Heaven, we empower individuals to become better stewards of God’s Creation, advocating for the protection and renewal of God’s world!
Have you spotted the Tree of Heaven lurking in your neighborhood? Now you too can join the fight against invasive species!