Alexander II students celebrate trees ahead of Georgia Arbor Day

"I hope they understand that there are potential career opportunities, as far as environmental work," Asha Ellen said. "We need more arborists, so hopefully after this we will have a future arborist one day."

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A day before Georgia Arboy Day, students at Alexander II Magnet School gathered at Tattnall Square Park on Thursday to learn the importance of earth’s most precious plant: trees.

Arborist Edward Morrow says trees are his passion, and he wants to spread the importance of nature to our youth.

“I think trees are important because they give us so many benefits that we’re really not aware of,” he said. “Trees help us breathe, which is very important. They purify the air, they help with erosion, they benefit us in so many ways.”

Before pursuing a career as an arborist, Morrow says growing up on a farm helped him realize just how important trees are to us.

“I wanted to be outside more, and I really appreciated nature,” he said. “Even though I was an accountant and I loved what I did, but I really enjoyed nature. I was also a teacher at heart, so I want to teach people about the importance of trees.”  

He taught the students basic tree facts by finding leaves in the park. The students also learned how to measure and compute a tree’s critical root zone. The executive director of Keep Macon_Bibb Beautiful, Asha Ellen, explains why exploring nature is beneficial for everyone. 

“If we could expose our students to different aspects, we don’t think about the importance of trees and the benefit they have, so today the students will have the opportunities to get some hands-on experience with an actual arborist.”

Ellen says she hopes this will inspire students to consider a future of working outdoors.   

“I hope they understand that there are potential career opportunities, as far as environmental work,” she said. “We need more arborists, so hopefully after this we will have a future arborist one day.”

Each student received a tree seedling compliments of the Georgia Forestry Commission. Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification also donated pots, and Minton Lawn & Garden Center donated soil so each student can plant their own seedling at home.