Reforesting an Eco-Campus is a reforestation project that was born from a collaboration between Principal Michael Powell, Manchester Gardening and Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay. Designed by Manchester Gardening, the project removed 15,000 square feet of turf grass at John B. Cary Elementary in urban Richmond, VA and replaced it with native trees, shrubs, and perennials that mimic a forest succession. This area now serves as an outdoor learning space for teachers and students, crucial habitat for a diversity of pollinators as well as a neighborhood amenity for the community, all while capturing and treating stormwater runoff.
The reforestation project was implemented as other pieces of the Eco Campus also took shape including the installation of a weather station, a community vegetable garden, a butterfly garden, and an orienteering course.
One of the most impressive thing about the reforestation project is how it has been embraced by the school itself. Principal Powell has championed the inclusion of environmental education opportunities for students, pushing for an approach to education that encourages students to get outside, investigate issues and actively seek solutions.
