Trees for Wildlife

Woody the Tree says goodbye to the students - Photo courtesy of The News-Herald

Trees for Wildlife began in 1989 with the purpose of sharing with first graders the importance of trees in their community.  The goal of the program is to help students understand how plants, animals, the environment, and people are connected.  The program, offered free of charge to all Lake County schools, involves Lake Metroparks staff, volunteers, and community partnership with the Lubrizol Corporation.  In the 22 years the program has been presented, over 65,000 children have heard the message and received a tree to plant.  

The objectives are that students will be able to name some local animals that depend on trees for their survival; list ways trees benefit wildlife; and state ways people can help trees and wildlife.  These objectives are met through a presentation of local wildlife and a visit from Woody, the Trees for Wildlife friendly tree mascot, who shares a story and is then covered with animal puppets as students recall which animals use trees and how they are used.  Woody raises his right branch as the students repeat the tree pledge and is often the recipient of thank you hugs and high fives.

Click here to view a video from the presentation at Wickliffe Elementary School yesterday.