Increasing Tree Canopy in Downtown Grand Rapids
Articles/Websites
Grades6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Biology, Civics
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Provided by Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
What it is
- This article from Friends of Grand Rapids Parks describes an ongoing partnership project focused on planting and caring for trees in downtown Grand Rapids.
- Students will learn about the role of urban trees, the work involved in maintaining tree canopy, and why trees are important for managing stormwater, reducing urban heat, and supporting climate resilience in cities.
Teaching tips
Positives
- This article has an excited and hopeful tone that is contagious for readers.
- The list of tree benefits clearly and concisely highlights the importance of this project.
Prerequisites
- Teachers may want to make sure students are familiar with the downtown Grand Rapids area.
Differentiation & Implementation
- To make connections to climate change, teachers can discuss how climate change will impact the urban heat island effect, making trees more important as a solution for mitigating and adapting to climate change.
- Teachers can also go over the role of trees in sequestering carbon using this article to help students understand the relationship between trees and climate change.
- Students can explore their own downtown area or other urban and suburban areas to determine where more trees could be planted.
- To make connections to careers, students can look into all of the people and jobs necessary to make a project like this happen.
- Teachers can make connections to health by having students explore the health benefits of having green spaces. This podcast episode is a nice resource for understanding the importance of connecting with nature in green spaces.
From the scientist review
This resource from Friends of Grand Rapids Parks highlights a community-driven effort to increase tree canopy in downtown Grand Rapids. The article emphasizes the importance of equitalbe tree planting, local partnerships, and neighborhood input to guide where trees are needed the most. While no original datasets are included, it would be a great resource for a classroom discusssion about urban forestry and environmental equity.
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Hosted on friendsofgrparks.org
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