According to a Chinese proverb, “the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago; the next best time is now.”
I agree, although I might add a small amendment: the next best time is April 26, 2014.
Why that date? Because that Saturday has been named Trees for the World Day by the World Organization of the Scout Movement. As part of this special worldwide Messengers of Peace project, more than 15,000 Scouts from 31 countries are expected to plant trees. The slogan is “One Scout One Tree,” although I would guess many Scouts will plant more than one!
How can your unit get involved? Just click over to the Trees for The World Facebook page. There you’ll find more information, as well as a form you can complete to report your participation.
As you plan your participation, consider these 10 facts about trees:
- Trees produce oxygen.
- Trees clean the soil.
- Trees control noise pollution.
- Trees slow storm water runoff.
- Trees reduces carbon dioxide.
- Trees clean the air.
- Trees creates shades and cool.
- Trees act as windbreakers.
- Trees fight soil erosion.
- Trees increase property value.
Oh, and one more fact. Trees we plant demonstrate our own values. I love this quote I found from someone named Nelson Henderson: “The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
Mark Ray | Writer 