Dibbles and trees

WP Spencer teaching

The Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge found three ways to celebrate Earth Day.  The first was a visit to the Rappahannock Community College in Warsaw, Virginia.  Deputy Refuge Manager Maxwell told her personal story emphasizing a commitment to public service and conservation for the 70 students and instructors who filled the student lounge at the college.

The second celebration included dibbles and bucket of trees and was held at the Wellford Tract of the Refuge.  On Saturday April 18, more than 15 people showed up to plant trees at a reforestation project.  Many were students from local schools.  Each grabbed a partner, dibble and a bucket of trees and went to work planting.  the Together Green tree planting was a collaborative effort by the National Audubon Society, Toyota, and the Refuge to promote Important Bird Areas around the country.

And finally, refuge staff worked with Tidewater Resource Conservation and Development Council staff on an invasive plant species workshop.  The workshop and demonstration was held on April 25.  Rappahannock River Valley Wildlife Biologist Spencer worked with partners to organize the event and provided instruction on the application of herbicides.  Refuge Manager McCauley and Spencer were featured speakers at the event.