Celebrating National Tree Day with iNaturalist
September 20th is National Tree Day ! On this day we come together to celebrate the magnificent trees that grace our planet. Trees are the silent giants that shape our environment, provide us with oxygen, and serve as vital habitats for countless species. On this special day, let's reflect on the importance of trees and our role in preserving them.
Why Trees Matter?
Trees are the lungs of our Earth. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, playing a critical role in combatting climate change. They provide shelter, food, and nesting sites for a diverse range of wildlife. Trees enhance the beauty of our landscapes and offer us a tranquil space to connect with nature. But they face numerous challenges, from deforestation to climate change impacts.
Our Role as Observers:
As members of the Observation Nation project, we can contribute to the conservation of trees and the ecosystems they support. Here's how we can make a difference:
Document Trees: Continue to document and share your tree observations on iNaturalist. Every observation, whether it's a towering oak or a delicate sapling, adds to our understanding of tree species and their distribution. If you need help with identification, check out the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s (CWF) guide on how to identifiable photos of plants.
Tree Health: Keep an eye out for signs of tree diseases or stress. Your observations can help researchers and conservationists identify and respond to threats to our forests.
Educate and Advocate: Share your passion for trees with your friends and family. Raise awareness about the importance of trees and the need for their protection.
Get Involved: Make your garden a habitat that is wildlife friendly. If you’re wondering how to make your garden wildlife-friendly check out the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s resource on how to garden with wildlife in mind.
To mark this National Tree Day, we are challenging all Observation Nation members. To spend some time outdoors on September 20th and try to spot as many different tree species as you can. By document them on iNaturalist you will be entered to win a CWF backpack. One winner will be chosen via random draw from everyone who submitted a tree observation.
Let's make today a day of appreciation, conservation, and connection with the trees. Together, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the shade, beauty, and benefits of trees.