Today the class participated in two ecological restoration projects. Our first stop was the Red Zone area in east Christchurch which was damaged from the earthquakes ten years ago. Many in the community turned out to plant native species and contribute to this ecological restoration project, Greening the Red Zone. We helped plant many trees and had lots of fun getting to know the locals.
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| It’s a group effort to plant so many natives |
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| We also found bricks and rubble from the previous neighborhood |
Next the class took a tour of the Landcare Research facility in Lincoln with Colin. We toured the newly renovated building and learned all about the work and research that Landcare does for the Country in environment, biodiversity, and sustainability.
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| Our wonderful tour of Landcare Research in Lincoln |
After lunch we headed to Mahoe Reserve, located just south of Christchurch in the town of Lincoln, for another restoration project. The class met with the founders of the reserve and learned about the high school that made the reserve (once a borrow pit for rocks and then a landfill) what it is today. We helped local volunteers with planting, mulching, and weeding.
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| Grow big, little plant! |
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| Our new friend Moana |
After the full day of work, the class is tired but happy. We went to a fish and chips shop for dinner then back to the dorms to pack for our first away trip tomorrow and get a well deserved rest.
-Charisse
I heard about 400 folks showed up, along with the Mayor of Christchurch, to help plant in the Red Zone and that around 5,000 native plants went in the ground. Good on you all for helping with this effort, and the one at Mahoe! How many plants at Mahoe on Sunday? Safe and fun first away trip travels to the beautiful Banks Peninsula, Akaroa, and Hinewai. m : )
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