National Tree Day events in Parkes and Forbes
Central West Lachlan Landcare, in conjunction with Parkes and Forbes Shire Councils, ran the 2019 National Tree Day Events.
Collaborations - LP002-002
The issue
With the region in severe drought, the National Tree Day events were the only planting opportunities that we had during 2019, due to these areas being overseen by Parkes and Forbes Shire Council post planting.
Both Councils have areas that require 'greening', increasing biodiversity and aesthetics that may not fit within the normal work plan.
Many people are looking for opportunities to volunteer for a couple of hours and make a difference in their community.
The solution
National Tree Day (NTD) is an opportunity for the community to work together to undertake plantings, socialise, meet new people, learn how to plant a tree and particularly, for children to watch their work continue to grow over their lifetime.
Forbes NTD is held on the Saturday and Parkes NTD is held on Sunday, making the entire weekend a fabulous opportunity for locals to participate in this event that attracts over 200 000 Australians to be involved annually.
Both events saw a significant shift in the number of attendees from previous years, with over 100 people being involved in both days, planting over 300 trees.
The impact
Both areas that were planted adjoin remnant bush and riparian areas and will increase biodiversity. The community will see the benefits of the work in the years ahead.
For many people the NTD event has become an annual get together and opportunity to meet new people.
We find that participants enjoy being part of something bigger and making a difference in their community through participation.
Knowing that you are working at one of 3 000 sites across Australia for NTD gives a sense that you are part of a bigger picture.
Key facts
- National Tree Day in Parkes and Forbes are annual events that are run in conjunction with Landcare and Parkes and Forbes Shire Councils
- 100 people involved in NTD and over 300 trees planted