Promoting Earth Day and Forest Fire Awareness
The trees that inhabit the world's forests, countrysides, and urban areas are more than just impressive feats of nature. In addition to their beauty and majesty, they are also invaluable to all forms of life on Earth. Unfortunately, trees and their many benefits are in danger on different fronts. Acres upon acres of forest trees are consumed by fires, some of which were needlessly caused by careless actions. Other trees are at risk from humanity's desire to expand due to increasing population, the need for wood and wood products, or the need for more land to accommodate commercial agriculture. Every April 22, the world celebrates Earth Day. On this day, people take action to make a difference and do their part to help the environment. It is important, however, to understand how trees are destroyed throughout the year and to commit to making a difference.
Forest Fires
The all-consuming nature of forest fires gives them the ability to destroy large swaths of trees around the world. These fires can be started by natural causes, such as lightning strikes, or by human negligence or even malicious intent. Fed by trees and other plant life, these fires can quickly get out of hand, turning into wildfires that are difficult to control. When trees burn in a forest fire, the fire also kills wildlife and destroys the shelter of those that survive. Forest fires destroy a source of medicine as well as food that's used by humans and animals alike. Additionally, forest fires take the lives of humans and are costly to combat.
To avoid starting forest fires, people should use care when starting campfires and always check for any restrictions and fire regulations in effect. Campfires should be small, built correctly, and put out completely before leaving. When on forest land, people should only drive cars or trucks with well-maintained exhaust systems. Spark arresters should be used on off-road vehicles, and one should never park any vehicle on dry grass or vegetation.
- Community-Based Fire Management: Resources for Children
- Forest Ecology
- Kids' Corner Resources
- Fire Protection Resources
- Resources: Fire Safety Publications
- Belmont Fire Department: For Kids Only
- Wildfire Resources
- Third-Grade Research: Natural Disasters
- MCFTOA: Fire Prevention
- Links to Tree Removal and Other Useful Websites
Plant a Tree for Earth Day
Everyone has the ability to help the environment. One way of helping is to plant a tree. Planting new trees helps to create a natural balance, particularly in urban areas where homes, shopping centers, and office buildings often lead to their destruction and removal. Often, people choose Earth Day as a date to do their part and plant a tree. On this day, people celebrate the environment by pledging to plant a tree in their home yard, schools may schedule outings to plant one or more trees on school grounds, or one might volunteer to plant trees in public parks or other areas.
- Resources for Teachers and Parents
- City of Florence: Recycling Education and Resource Websites
- Earth Day North Iowa: Links
- Mrs. Butler's Fun Sites
- Student Resources: Learn More About How You Can Help the Environment
- Tree Care Resources
- Town Code Zoning Regulations
Knowledge Is Power
There are many ways to protect the forest and ensure that there are plenty of trees for future generations to enjoy. Conducting research via the Internet and books can help people discover ways in which they can help. The Internet, for example, is a fast way to find information on tree conservation groups and associations. One can also research the destruction caused by forest fires in the U.S. and around the world by searching state or federal websites.
- Stump Grinder: The Best Equipment for Stump Removal
- Tree-Trimming: Safety's More Than Skin-Deep
- How to Move a Tree: Removal and Transplanting
- Brighton Tree Ninja Nabbed
- Winter Tree-Trimming and Maintenance 101
- The Arborist Resource for Tree-Trimming, Identification, and Forest Fire Risk
- Pruning Trees and Shrubs
- My Ash Tree Is Dead: Now What Do I Do? (PDF)
- City of Morgan Hill Tree Removal Permit
- Follow Proper Pruning Techniques
- Tree Removal Permits (PDF)
- Kellogg Building Project: Tree Removal
- Utah State University Forestry: Tree Care
- New Jersey Tree-Trimming Services (PDF)
- Tree Removal at Nittany Lion Inn
- Tree Removal Application (PDF)
- The Cold Hard Truth: Selling Walnut Yard Trees
- Tree Removal to Begin This Saturday
- Tree Removal Permit Application
- Guidelines for Public Hearings for Tree Removals (PDF)
- Boulevard Tree Removal Permit Request
- URI Position on United Illuminating's Tree-Trimming and Removal Plan (PDF)
- Tree Regulation in the City of Annapolis (PDF)
- Care of Mature Backyard Apple Trees