For Release: Thursday, February 10, 2005
DEC Offers Free Tree Seedlings to Schools
Teaches New York's Children the Importance of Planting Trees
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan today offered free tree seedlings to schools across the State for spring planting through the DEC School Seedling Program.
"This unique program helps us teach the next generation of environmental stewards the importance of planting trees and caring for our environment," Sheehan said. "When children plant trees they can get their hands dirty and enjoy a day outside, while getting firsthand experience about the care, maintenance, and value of trees."
The program provides 50 tree seedlings or a mixed packet of 20 wildlife shrubs to any public or private school that would like to participate in the program. Wildlife shrubs provide food and shelter for birds and mammals and make a good buffer between open and forested areas. The seedlings can be planted on school grounds or other community spaces.
Teachers and students are encouraged to plan the project ahead of time by discussing the values trees contribute to the environment including erosion control, wildlife habitat, windbreak and more.
Planting 50 seedlings will require approximately 1,800 square feet, while the shrub planting will require about half that space. Last year the program provided 32,000 seedlings to over 650 schools.
To participate, schools should contact DEC's Saratoga Tree Nursery at (518) 587-1120 or (518) 581-1439, or the nearest DEC regional forestry office and request a School Seedling Program brochure that contains all the information necessary to place an order. All orders must be received at the nursery by March 27, 2005.
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