Arbor Day in the Pacific Islands - A Note from the Executive Director
There are few times in the memories of those living where hope has been more greatly needed. As we near this year’s close, I find myself seeking out the bright spots - those things promising better times to come.
Top on that list are natural places and forests. In them, we find tranquility and relief for daily cares. Wonder at the subtle glamour and perseverance of leafy plants and gentle giants serves to shore up our sense of connectedness in the world. Peace comes with the recollection that trees and forests perish again and again, yet also regrow and return in a life-affirming cycle.
October and November mark the timeframe in which several Pacific Islands celebrate Arbor Day (October 1 in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, October 13 in Guam, and November 6 in Hawai‘i, to name a few). This holiday honoring trees is one that countries around the world, and every state in the U.S., celebrate throughout the year. These festivities centered around appreciation for trees demonstrate our global commitment to shaping a joyful and thriving present and future. For in the words of people in Guam, “Adahi i tano' sa' ayu muna'lå'la' i taotao” (Take care of the land because that's what allows people to live).
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Member and USDA Forest Service Updates
Jennifer Eberlien has accepted the position of Associate Deputy Chief for National Forest System in Washington, D.C., effective Oct. 13. Eberlien previously served as Acting Regional Forester for the Rocky Mountain Region.
Patricia O'Connor will serve as Acting Regional Forester for the Rocky Mountain Region effective Oct. 19. O'Connor was forest supervisor for the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Intermountain Region.
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Healthy Trees, Healthy Lives - Idaho Feature
In coordination with the Western Forestry Leadership Coalition (WFLC) Western Urban & Community Forestry (WUCF) Network, guest posts are featured on the WFLC website that tie together human and tree health. The posts are provided by members of the WUCF network and are shared on social media with the hashtag #HealthyTreesHealthyLives.
Boise, Idaho's City of Trees Challenge Builds a Healthier and More Resilient Future introduces a campaign to plant one tree for every household and one seedling for every resident in the city of Boise. Read the post to learn more about the challenge and its ties to local and global initiatives!
