Tap into the world of trees and learn from arborists and urban foresters about their care. The Heartland Tree Alliance Tree Keepers will host a series of classes beginning Thursday, September 7.
The goal of Tree Keepers is to provide a corps of trained volunteers as a resource for local municipalities, school districts, and neighborhood associations to lead tree planting, pruning and maintenance projects regionally.
Research shows that the average street tree lives less than 10 years due to the harsh conditions of the urban environment. While local municipalities are responsible for the preservation, protection and maintenance of all city trees, economic realities have limited the ability of some communities to provide adequate attention to young trees. Small and newly planted trees have the highest mortality rate and therefore need the most help.
Tree Keepers receive training in environmental awareness and basic arboricultural principles. Through classroom work and outdoor training, participants learn about tree identification, site suitability, urban soils, basic tree biology, proper planting techniques, plant care, diseases and pruning. Upon completion of the course, Tree Keepers are asked to volunteer 24 hours of volunteer time to the Heartland Tree Alliance for municipal tree care projects around the Kansas City metropolitan region.
The fall training classes are 6 – 9 p.m. on Thursdays, September 7, 14, 21, and 28 at Merriam City Hall, 9001 W 62nd St, Merriam, KS. A Saturday workday will be held from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on September 30. The course costs $50.
To learn more and reserve your spot, visit bridgingthegap.org.