World Habitat Day 2020 Tree Planting
Celebrate World Habitat Day by planting trees and creating shelter for native wildlife.
“Solutions begin with small steps individuals can take to alter the way our cities function. We must reduce the amount of waste we produce, and, at the same time, start seeing it as a valuable resource that can be re-used and recycled, including energy”. – UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres
On Monday, October 5 we are partnering with Carmel Clean Up Crew and community volunteers to plant one hundred trees at the Vera J. Hinshaw Preserve. This tree planting serves as a celebration of World Habitat Day and a kick-off event for the “10,000 Trees in Carmel” campaign spearheaded by Carmel City Council member Miles Nelson.
What is World Habitat Day?
The purpose of World Habitat Day is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities, and on the basic right of all beings to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world that we all have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns. World Habitat Day was established in 1985 by the United Nations General Assembly and was first celebrated in 1986, always taking place on the first Monday of October.
The theme of World Habitat Day 2020 is Housing for All: A Better Urban Future. One of the ways we can improve our urban future is intentionally creating “housing” – or habitat – for native plants and wildlife to co-exist harmoniously with urban infrastructure and dwellings. With many CCPR parks and greenways already holding the “Certified Wildlife Friendly Habitat” title it only makes sense to expand the native tree plantings and secure a healthy, green urban future for the city of Carmel and Clay Township.
What will volunteers do at the event?
The project will encompass the southernmost 1/10th of the Vera J. Hinshaw preserve. Volunteers will help plant container trees and “plug” seedlings of native tree species such as dogwoods, hazelnuts, buttonbush, and various viburnums. Joanna Woodruff, CCPR Natural Resources Coordinator, is working on preparing the area by arranging for the removal of invasive honeysuckle, wintercreeper, and burning bush.
We are very excited to offer this event to the Carmel Clay community and help with the “10,000 Trees in Carmel” campaign – an incredible legacy project that will shape the natural landscape of our community for years to come.
How can I participate?
To make this event a success, we need the help of our community volunteers! All you need to do is register (it’s free, we just need to know how many people are attending). After that, just come to the event ready to dig in and give back. Click here to register!
We will be following social distancing guidelines at this event. Masks are required.
