Greene County eighth graders learned the correct way to plant trees Tuesday as they helped the Jefferson tree committee plant 30 trees on S. Maple St and W. Madison St.
Brad Riphagen, a field coordinator for Trees Forever and a longtime Jefferson resident, of led each eighth grade science class through the correct way to plant trees as he provided a wealth of information about the benefits of trees.
Riphagen, science teacher Amy Keenan and the tree committee planned the hands-on learning experience.
The students planted more than 10 different species, learning that diversity is the best way to minimize the impact of things like Dutch elm disease or emerald ash borer.
The trees were planted in the city-owned right-of-way. Owners of the adjacent properties are encouraged to water the trees as needed, but tree committee volunteers will keep watchful eyes on trees that need care.
Along with the 30 trees planted by the students, the tree committee also planted 12 trees at Paul Nally Park east of St Joseph Parish Center, and 20 trees at Daubendiek Park.
The trees are funded by Alliant Energy’s Branching Out program.
