2009 Spring Citizen Forester Training

Citizen Forester Workshop
Saturday, April 18, 8 am-noon, at Quarry Hill Nature Center

An record breaking class of 28 individuals came out early on Saturday, April 18, to learn all about trees at the Quarry Hill Nature Center.

Jacob Ryg, Rochester City Forester led the class with help from Nate Runke, from Maier Forest and Tree and Jesse Hoekstra, RNeighborWoods committee member. Participants were taught about the Rochester urban forest, tree planting basics, care, basic arboriculture, urban forest advocacy, and as well as proper planting techniques.

“This class of citizen foresters were the most interactive and interested in getting involved in the learning process that we’ve had in quite some time,” said Jacob. “It shows that we have people in our city that know the benefits of having a healthy urban forest – These new citizen foresters volunteers have a solid foundation of information and resources to begin making a difference in each of their neighborhoods. Something tells me that we’re going to continue to have a huge increase in participation and excitement in our Tree City USA.”

All graduates of the class were encouraged to be active tree advocates in their neighborhoods and participate in upcoming RNeighborWoods activities, including our spring community tree planting

Jesse Hoekstra, one of the enthusiastic RNeighborWoods committee members who have extensive forestry background added, “It was great to hear people “connect the dots” between trees and our quality of life. The group talked avidly about their desire to plant more trees in their yards, neighborhoods and across Rochester. They were so interested in what to do next. We must be ready to utilize their strengths and energy!”

For more about RNeighborWoods including partners, events, and photos, check the website.

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