THE LEAFLET

Our Education team at Casey Trees has been working hard since the start of the school year to connect students with trees in several different ways. Between our school tree plantings and the various pop-up events that you can find us at – we’re always around teaching children and adults alike the importance of their tree canopy!

Last week, our Education team had the honor of representing Casey Trees at Upward Ground! This immersive, dynamic half-day summit ─ presented by the USDA Forest Service ─ featured interactive exhibits and local student and community leaders to support emerging Black leaders and professionals in demanding and achieving environmental justice and climate action.

The event hosted over 100 students from Anacostia New Tech High School, Ballou High School, Bard High School Early College DC and Thurgood Marshall Academy. Our team was able to connect with many of these students to share information about the local environment and teach them about various green jobs in the industry that they could pursue when they graduate.

Near the end of the event, Upward Ground held a panel discussion with prominent Black leaders in the environmental field. The panel comprised influential figures such as Beattra Wilson, the Assistant Director for Cooperative Forestry at USDA Forest Service in Washington, DC, as well as Terry Baker, the CEO of the Society of American Foresters.

The discussion centered on the significance of representation in the environmental sector and the critical role that diversity plays in shaping effective and holistic environmental policies. Panelists shared their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges they faced as Black professionals in the field and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

As the dialogue continued, the panelists emphasized the urgent need for young minds to actively participate in the fight against climate change and to pursue careers that contribute to a more sustainable future. They shared inspiring anecdotes and practical insights, encouraging the high school attendees to be proactive in creating positive change within their communities.

As the event drew to a close, the attendees gathered to listen to remarks delivered by Randy Moore, Chief of the United States Forest Service. He emphasized the crucial role of representation in the environmental industry and the significance of diverse perspectives in shaping a sustainable future. Chief Moore underscored the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that embraces the contributions of individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, and communities. With Chief Moore’s empowering message echoing in their minds, the students left the event with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, ready to embark on their own transformative journeys within the environmental field.

Our Education team at Casey Trees continued their impactful outreach efforts at Kingman Island Day this past weekend. Amid the vibrant festivities, they engaged with both children and adults, sharing insightful knowledge about the diverse tree species thriving within the park. Through an engaging leaf-etching activity, participants were able to connect with nature on a personal level, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

In addition to highlighting the beauty of the park’s greenery, the team demonstrated their commitment to environmental education by conducting air quality measurements. By emphasizing the importance of clean air and its impact on both human health and the well-being of the ecosystem, they effectively underscored the significance of sustainable environmental practices.

Through their dynamic and interactive initiatives, our Education team at Casey Trees continued to foster a culture of environmental stewardship, inspiring the local community to embrace a deeper understanding of the natural world and the critical role they play in its preservation.