Local Rangers Teach Highlands Students To Plant Trees

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A group of middle school students had a chance to play in the dirt this week.

There are some lessons you simply can't teach in a classroom. On Friday, rangers from the Allegheny County Parks Department worked with sixth graders to teach them how to plant trees.

"We are educational rangers and kids are really an important part of our programming," said Ranger Max Badar.

Teachers agree the activity is crucial.

"Once again, a multi-sensory approach. Hands on. I think this is something they will definitely remember, and they are making a difference," teacher Ellen Pishko said.

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Rick: From what they have told you, do you think you can do it?
Julie: Yeah.
Rick: Does it look hard?
Julie: A little bit.
Rick: What part?
Julie: Putting the tree into the hole because it is heavy.
Rick: How much do they weigh?
Julie: 200 pounds.

Seven varieties of trees were planted. They were selected by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

Rick: Why does it matter that you come out to boyce park and do this?
Lilly: So that we can have fresh air and so the park can look beautiful.

It's a great lesson in responsibility and also about the environment at the same time. When they are done, there will be about a dozen trees on the side of the road, and more on the other side by the soccer fields.