A Shoal Lake Grade 8 class put math, research and good old-fashioned hard work into planting a 100-tree shelterbelt at their school’s track.
“Students were eager to be involved in this one-of-a-kind project blessing the community as a whole,” said their teacher, Benita Shwaluk.
Shoal Lake School connected with the University of Manitoba and Science Rendezvous’ Million Tree Project to plant 100 white spruce saplings on the east portion of the school track this September.
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Shwaluk didn’t link tree planting to any particular class subject. She felt the students’ efforts allowed for many valuable lessons.
The 16 students used math to figure out how many trees each student would plant and how many rows were required to fit 100 trees in the allotted space. Spacing was discussed, the depth and width of the hole were estimated, and they learned that white spruce are quite tolerant of most soil types.
They learned how the trees will add beauty to the school grounds; provide shade and a windbreak for activities on the track, soccer pitch and football gridiron; help with run-off and erosion control; clean the air; and promote biodiversity by providing habitat.
From a town perspective, trees moderate temperatures. Trees improve mental health by reducing stress, and the view adds aesthetic beauty to a community.
The students dug six holes each.
“Along with bringing their own shovel or other form of digging tool, the young minds and strength assisted or complemented each other,” said Shwaluk.
It took a team effort to get through thick clay and around the odd rock, but students were excited to improve the environment and leave their mark on the school for years to come. There were no complaints.
The saplings measured eight to 12 inches at planting. If well looked after, the trees grow 13 to 24 inches in height per year. At maturity white spruce grow up to a height of 40 to 60 feet, with a spread of 10 to 20 feet.
Shwaluk hopes most of the trees will reach heights over eight feet by the time these students graduate in 2026.
The tree planting isn’t over. Shwaluk has put the school on a list for 200 more trees.
“Looking ahead I’m hoping to work either with the same group or another group, as the focus will be planting trees around the community,” she said.
“This was a wonderful way to get students engaged and learning outside in a hands-on experience,” Shwaluk said. “Digging a hole, planting a tree, and watching it grow helps not only our environment but teaches students to invest in a sustainable future.”
