A blog from the Earth Ethics Action Team
Restoring What Has Been Lost.
The Earth Ethics Action Team (EEAT) has the mission of “greening” WES. It has, for example, created an insect garden that provides food for native insects, removes pollutants, sequesters carbon, and expresses the beauty of the natural world. When it comes to these features, however, trees are the superstars.
Unfortunately, during the past few decades, WES lost several beautiful trees: one near the site of the insect garden, another in the green space that separates the two small parking lots in back, and a third where the addition now stands. EEAT set out to replace them.
To select the right trees for the right locations, EEAT consulted with Cece McCrary, an urban forester from Casey Trees, a non-profit organization whose mission is “to restore, enhance and protect the tree canopy of the nation’s capital.” Cece visited our grounds, selected three promising locations, and suggested trees that would do well in them.
Right Locations.
The first location is in front of the building. Although the largest open space is on the south side of the sidewalk that leads to the entry of the building, a tree in that location would block the view of the mural and would also make it impossible to place a tent in that location for outdoor functions. So, a site north of the sidewalk was chosen.
The second is by the picnic tables in back. This is an ideal spot for a shade tree that would protect people sitting at the tables as well as children in the playground.
The third is in the patch of green between the two small parking lots by the alley. This patch is large enough to give roots and branches ample space to spread in each direction. Its main limitation is the set of wires overhead.
Right Trees.
Several criteria guided the choice of trees. First, we did not want to cast a shadow onto the solar collectors located on the roof of the building. We therefore had to consider each tree’s mature height and shape. We also wanted to feed and shelter wildlife, which meant choosing native species to which wildlife has adapted. Finally, we wanted trees that would be attractive.
For the first location, we chose an eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis), a small native tree that has a beautiful purple bloom in the spring.
For the second, we chose a hackberry (Celtis occidentalis). This native shade tree produces a late autumn berry that hangs on the tree well into winter, offering food for birds.
For the third, we chose a witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana). In this location, a witch hazel should spread out rather than reach up, avoiding conflict with the wires overhead. Like the hackberry, it has good wildlife value.
Right Care. Casey Trees planted our selections free of charge this January. Each sapling will take decades to reach maturity. The main thing they need now is water. Each tree has a green plastic bag surrounding it that will be filled once a week by WES maintenance staff for the next two years. The trunks also are temporarily wrapped in a mesh that protects them from deer.
Our Intent. Humanistic values reach beyond humanity to include the living things with which we share the earth. We have the intelligence and ability to be stewards of nature. Planting native trees is a good way to exercise that stewardship.
If you are interested in further information about EEAT or joining us, please contact Rich Reis at Rich.Reis1@gmail.com.