The lesson of Tree Day

Students from Bothwell District High School have rolled up their sleeves, picked up the shovels and planted seedlings as part of the annual Schools Tree Day.

This is the second time the school has participated in the event, which it did in collaboration with Sustainable Timber Tasmania and the Forest Education Foundation.

Bothwell District High School Principal Erika Boas said the yearly event had become an opportunity for her students and staff to collaborate and learn about career paths in forestry.

“The planting day brings our school community together in the best possible way,” Ms Boas said.

“Students, staff and foresters all have a hand in creating something lasting and learn so much along the way.

“Our extensive partnership with Sustainable Timber Tasmania and the Forest Education Foundation means our students have a full seed to tree experience, that starts in the Perth Nursery and extends to the Tasmania’s forests.”

Around 80 students from prep to grade 12 planted more than 600 native seedlings.

“This is where the forest and the fun begin,” said Suzette Weeding, General Manager Conservation and Land Management at Sustainable Timber Tasmania.

“It starts in the hands of students who are learning, through real action, how to care for their schools and communities.”

“Schools Tree Day builds a sense of purpose and community.

“They’re learning about the environment and actively shaping it.”

The seedlings, once grown into full-size trees, will form an extended shelterbelt around Bothwell District High School.

“Planting a tree is a beginning,” Forest Education Foundation manager Darcy Vickers said.

“It gets kids asking questions, noticing patterns in nature, and seeing themselves as part of the landscape.”

More schools across Tasmania will be gifted seedlings by Sustainable Timber Tasmania and taking part in planting events throughout August.