The Government of the Turks & Caicos Islands, www.gov.tc
April 30, 2015

British West Indies Collegiate students plant trees on Arbour Day 2015

In honour of Earth Day 2015, The Department of Environment & Maritime Affairs (DEMA), in collaboration with the Turks & Caicos National Trust, the Department of Youth Affairs, and the FilCom Inc, planted a number of indigenous trees at the Five Cays Community Centre on Wednesday 22 April, with the assistance of the students of the Enid Capron Primary School. An information session about how to plant your own trees; why planting indigenous trees are important and a tree planting was hosted to commemorate the important day in the global Environmental Calendar.

“Gardening Soil was graciously donated by the DO IT Centre, while DEMA provided the young trees for planting. The Department of Youth Affairs provided a lovely lunch for the students at Enid Capron, in honour of the day” said Amy Avenant, DEMA Environmental Outreach Coordinator. “Students were split into groups to plant their own trees and were happy to get their hands dirty for a good cause!”

On Friday 24 April, Arbor Day was celebrated by , the Provo Primary School Council and the students of the British West Indies Collegiate. The council assisted with the planting of indigenous plants such as Seagrape and Mahogany. British West Indies Collegiate also showed their stewardship for the environment through an enthusiastic tree planting supported by three representatives per class. Friday afternoon was spent preparing their own soil and potting their plants.

DEMA and the National Trust were specific in picking indigenous trees and plant species of the Turks & Caicos as they are both hardy and adapted to our dry conditions. It is better for our environment if we landscape with indigenous vegetation as it will, provide homes for natural bird and wildlife species and allows for a reduced visual impact in many scenarios.

You too can get involved and celebrate ‘Greening TCI Month’! Plant a tree, organize a clean-up or simply be more conscious of your water and energy consumption! For more tips, please do not hesitate to contact Amy Avenant, DEMA Environmental Outreach Coordinator at Avenant.amy@gmail.com.