Sterling High School’s FFA launched a tree planting initiative with Tree-Plenish to try and make an effort to promote sustainable environments. S.H.S. partnered with non-profit organization Tree-Plenish, to accomplish their goal of planting 300 saplings. This will help to offset the carbon emission produced throughout the year. 

  This plan aims to create a greener community, spotlighting that while only 300 saplings may not offset the school’s energy consumption and carbon output completely, every small step is a bigger step towards making a difference. 

  Megan Stanley, the FFA advisor leading the projects said, “A small step is bigger than no step at all.With community support, we hope to exceed our goal and make a significant difference.”   

  The FFA offered Easter Redbud, Red Maple, and River Birch saplings for sale at seven dollars each. Orders had to be placed by March 26th, with saplings available for pick-up or they could be planted by FFA members on April 26th. By participating in this event, it motivates people to gather for a common goal. 

  The initiative not only enhances the local environment, but also encourages community involvement and awareness about sustainability. 

  “It’s important because it provides people with a new avenue to make a positive impact on the environment,” said Grace Wetzell.

  The S.H.S. FFA encourages all S.H.S. students and staff to participate in this event to help create a greener future for the community. 

  After researching different ways that they could positively impact the community, FFA members came up with the concept of selling saplings and planting trees. 

  FFA president Grace Wetzell expresseed how this project not only creates a cleaner community, but also “finds a way to contribute to the environment while ensuring inclusiveness and selecting an activity that would benefit all who participate.” 

  This initiative is a great example of how students can make a positive impact on their community while having fun at the same time.