Planet Ark is encouraging Hunter residents get involved in National Tree Day this weekend.
They say it’s not only good for the planet, but will provide people, especially young people, a sense of well-being.
“We know through our experiences with the National Tree Day program that there are significant benefits associated with spending 6me in nature, including enhanced learning, concentration, healing, relaxation and recovery, to name just a few,” Planet Ark CEO, Rebecca Gilling said.
” Time in nature helps us thrive as individuals – physically, intellectually, emotionally, mentally, and ethically – and research suggests this is something young Australians really need at this time.”
“By engaging young minds in environmental ini6a6ves like Na6onal Tree Day, we are equipping them with the tools they need to support mental health and wellbeing and become responsible stewards of our planet.”
Since its inception in 1996, National Tree Day has seen the participation of over five million volunteers. Together, they have planted more than 27 million native trees, shrubs, and grasses, spanning every state and territory in Australia.
National Tree Day is happening this Sunday, 28 July. There are a number of ways to get involved locally. You can check out some below.
PIT PONY PARK REHABILITATION
This event aims to plant native grasses around the stands of trees to prevent erosion, to add new mulch and to plant native ground covers and small shrubs to attract pollinators, small invertebrates and retain water for the large plants.
BELMONT WETLANDS STATE PARK
Part of an ongoing effort to rehabilitate the coastal dune ecosystems -stabilize the sand dunes, reduce erosion, support local biodiversity and create a sustainable habitat for local wildlife.
CITY OF NEWCASTLE FUNDAY
Volunteers will plant 4000 natives to restore an urban forest and improve health of the wetland. There will be activities for all ages – plant trees and celebrate the benefits of the wetland and urban forest, join a wetland tour, and dipnet for waterbugs.
