Echo Hill Awarded Iowa DNR’s “Trees For Kids”

Fourth and fifth graders from Echo Hill Elementary recently planted 30 trees as part of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Trees For Kids grant awarded to the school!

Prior to planting the trees along the sidewalk between Echo Hill and Oak Ridge Middle School, a representative from the Iowa DNR talked to our students about photosynthesis, conservation, proper care, and the many benefits trees provide us.

Assisted by Echo Hill Principal Dan Ludwig, Grounds Supervisor Jamie Johnson, and several Linn-Mar volunteers, the students worked in small groups to perform a variety of tasks to plant the 10 different types of trees given to the school. The kids shoveled dirt and ensured there was enough in place to support the young trees. Students also shoveled much and placed it around the base of each newly planted tree. The final steps were to water the trees and admire their hard work.

Trees For Kids is an effort for schools and communities to involve youth in planting trees. The grants pay up to $5,000 for landscape trees and mulch for schools, communities, and other public areas.