Local nonprofits partner to get 4,000 trees planted on Nisqually River
In an effort to curb dwindling populations of local fish, plants and other wildlife, a couple of nonprofits are asking for volunteers to help plant more than 4,000 trees and shrubs on the banks of the Nisqually River and other local streams.
Typically around this time of year, field trips are planned at schools in Thurston County and other neighboring communities to give children an opportunity to do community service and engage in real world science, according to a press release. But due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, field trips have been put on hold. Instead, the Nisqually Land Trust and the Nisqually River Foundation have partnered to make sure the trees still get planted.
“When you look at the river from a salmon’s viewpoint, it’s surrounded by trees that provide shade, produce oxygen, and create habitat for the bugs that salmon eat,” said land trust member Maya Nabipoor. “It’s critical that these trees get planted to help the salmon, other wildlife, and really, our whole planet.”
The new plan for tree planting is supported by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Aquatic Land Enhancement and Acquisition grant, as well as the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office and the Nisqually Indian Tribe.
Nisqually River is a critical habitat for multiple species of salmon, according to the release. The Nisqually River Foundation works to educate the public on issues regarding the environment and these resources through service learning projects like tree planting.
“Our approach is much more than just digging a hole and planting a tree,” said Nabipoor. “We create connections with the science behind the ecosystem recovery and bring school work to life for kids with shovels and work gloves.”
Planting will begin Oct. 27 and run through mid-November, and volunteers can check the website calendar to sign up at nisquallylandtrust.org/calendar. Volunteers have to maintain a social distance and wear a mask when gathered as a group, supplying their own gloves, water and snacks.
This story was originally published October 15, 2021 at 5:45 AM.
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