Field Biology Class Partners with County, TREE Foundation to Explore Green Equity

Elmira, NY (04/22/2021) — Trees are commonly a symbol for Earth Day because of their special significance to the environment. They reduce pollution, provide shelter for animals, and help regulate temperatures. But studies have also shown their significance extends to social reform. Research indicates trees reduce stress and chronic disease, and children living near green spaces exhibit better concentration and impulse-control skills.

This environmental connection to health and wellbeing brought together Elmira College, Chemung County's Environmental Management Council and Meg Lowman's TREE Foundation. Their goal is to create "green equity."

According to city records, Elmira once had a vibrant tree population, but flood mitigation efforts, tornadoes and heavy winds, disease, and insects have taken a toll on the city's trees, particularly in poorer and more urban areas within the city.

"Walk down a street with a healthy mature tree canopy, like Euclid Avenue, Clinton Street, or Church Street, and you will quickly notice the contribution a mature tree canopy has on the feeling and quality of life in those areas," said Daniel Kjar, associate professor of biology at Elmira College. "Compare those areas to places in the city with few mature trees. The difference is immense and has a real impact on people and how they utilize the space."

The first step is to collect data on the health and location of the trees in the city today. Over the next several weeks, Kjar's Term III Field Biology class will conduct a tree survey to record the species type, location, diameter, and health of the trees in and around Elmira.

Chemung County and Meg Lowman's TREE Foundation will then use the data to apply for grants to replace trees and build out new green spaces.

This work will rebuild the city's tree canopies and ensure everyone benefits from the environmental and social benefits they provide.

"For me this is just common sense and a win-win," said Chemung County Legislator Martin Chalk who is a representing member on the Chemung County Environmental Management Council. "When I look out my windows I see beautiful trees, and I can't imagine not having that."

Elmira College has recently increased its focus on sustainability, announcing in November a new sustainability minor developed in partnership with renowned conservationist and author, Dr. Meg Lowman. An Elmira native, Lowman has earned an international reputation as one of the world's first arbornauts, pioneering the field of forest canopy science.

First-year students can also choose to be part of an Environmental Sustainability Learning Living Community. These are small groups of students, interested in common themes, living in the same residence hall and taking similar classes. Students within a Learning Living Community will complete their First Year, First Service community service event and other activities together.

"We need trees more than they need us," Lowman said. "The treetops house approximately half of our planet's land-based biodiversity and trees literally keep us alive with their important functions. Not just seedlings, but especially big trees. Chemung County is home to some magnificent trees -- an important legacy for our kids and grandkids!"

Pictured above: For the 2019 Earth Day, Dr. Daniel Kjar's Field Biology class planted a red and white oak tree. This year, the class will conduct a tree survey in the City of Elmira.

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