National Tree Day 2021

Published: 06 Aug 2021 2:38pm

Nature lovers from across the city gathered at Bomen last Sunday for National Tree Day, ready to help plant out a large parcel of previously cleared land.

Many age groups across the community were represented, from retirees right through to babies, with the group planting 1500 native seedlings in two hours.

As the native seedlings grow, they will provide important habitat for native fauna, including threatened species like the squirrel glider and swift parrot.

Participants enjoyed a barbecue lunch, prepared by Wagga Wagga Urban Landcare, and were gifted with a free seedling for their own backyard.

All seedlings planted will contribute to Council’s ‘One Tree for Me’ tally.

Through the One Tree for Me initiative, Council is aiming to get 65,000 seedlings planted in our local area over the next six years – one seedling for every resident.

Environmental Education Officer Alice Kent said every native seedling planted in a backyard would help support our region’s biodiversity.

“We’re planning more seedling giveaways to keep encouraging residents to plant native trees, shrubs and groundcovers in their backyards,” Ms Kent said.

“Backyards act as stepping stones, allowing native animals to travel safely between larger areas of natural bushland.

“Your backyard also supports millions of invertebrates such as bees, butterflies, worms and ants, with every creature working to keep the system in balance.

“Winter is the best time to get natives into the garden, so the more seedlings you can plant now, the better.”

Find out more about One Tree for Me at wagga.nsw.gov.au/onetreeforme