Huntington, IN - Students from Mr. Park's Advanced Placement Environmental Science class and Green Team members got their hands dirty while learning valuable lessons about ecological restoration from local expert Jake Wyatt of Wyatt's Way Nursery & Landscaping.
Native Species Education
The event began with Wyatt explaining the critical difference between native and non-native species, highlighting why this distinction matters for our local ecosystem.
"Native species are species that have been here in Indiana since the beginning. They were not brought here by human intervention," Wyatt explained to the students. "They have a certain function in nature."
Wyatt emphasized how the relationship between native plants and wildlife has evolved over thousands of years, creating delicate ecological balances that support biodiversity. He shared striking examples including the monarch butterfly's reliance on milkweed and how a single oak tree can support over 500 species of native butterfly and moth caterpillars.
"If you remove every oak species of tree out of nature around here, you would have an ecosystem collapse," Wyatt told the students, explaining that many birds and mammals rely on these caterpillars to feed their young.
Hands-On Learning
Following the educational presentation, students participated in the practical application of their knowledge by planting native trees on the school grounds. Wyatt demonstrated proper tree planting techniques, which students then practiced themselves:
- Properly measuring and digging the hole
- Examining root structure and addressing root-bound plants
- Positioning the tree at the correct depth
- Backfilling with soil while maintaining proper tree alignment
- Applying mulch correctly around the base ("up to, but not on" the trunk)
Environmental Impact
This project goes beyond a single day's activity. The native trees planted by the students will provide lasting environmental benefits for years to come, supporting pollinators and other wildlife while contributing to a healthier campus ecosystem.
"Every tree you're planting is going to support wildlife," noted Wyatt, highlighting the lasting impact of the students' work.
The partnership between Huntington North High School and Wyatt's Way Nursery & Landscaping exemplifies the school's commitment to practical environmental education and community engagement.
Mr. Park, who organized the event, emphasized how this hands-on experience connects classroom learning to real-world environmental stewardship: "This is why we're doing this—so every species we're planting supports native Indiana wildlife."
The tree planting initiative is part of an ongoing effort to enhance the school's green spaces with environmentally beneficial plantings, which will eventually include the installation of a commemorative Huntington North rock surrounded by native wildflowers.