Informational Tree Festival Rooted in Fun
UMW’s annual Tree Festival took place Thursday, Oct. 1, just as the maples, dogwoods and sassafras trees across campus are gearing up for their fabulous fall showing of reds, yellows and oranges.
The five-hour event, which took place on Ball Circle, gives Mary Washington a chance to showcase its longstanding designation as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution through the Arbor Day Foundation, said Director of Landscape and Grounds Holly Chichester.
“The festival provides an opportunity to answer questions about trees on campus and in our community, share the thought and expertise behind UMW’s tree projects and tree removal decisions, and help people better understand how we care for and manage our campus tree canopy,” she said. “It’s also a chance to encourage participation in upcoming tree plantings and other opportunities to get involved.”
Under the supervision of representatives from Bartlett Tree Experts, guests harnessed up to climb the giant maple just outside of Ball Hall. Community partners, including Downtown Greens and Friends of the Rappahannock, were on hand to talk with guests, who also could pose for photos with Smokey Bear. Educational displays, crafts and interactive experiences were also part of the day.
Chichester said when she asks those who approach her at the festival to imagine UMW without any trees, she’s typically met with a dramatically negative response.
“The festival gives us the chance to connect with local organizations and tree advocates,” she said. “And it lets us invite our campus community to learn, participate and become more engaged in caring for the trees that make UMW – and our community – such a special place.”
Plan to attend the Solace in Salvage Slabbing event on Tuesday, Oct. 20, where you can catch a glimpse of a portable sawmill turning the trees that had to come down to make room for UMW’s new theatre building into usable lumber for benches, tables and even learning materials for students.
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