Plant trees with your kids. Lots of them!

When I was young and going through primary school I lived on a farm in North Eastern Victoria. We kept sheep and cattle and the odd crop of oats or lucerne. Half way through my time there my step father (owner of the farm) with the (monetary) support of a local environmental group decided to plant native saplings along each fence of each paddock. I hated this job, digging, planting, digging, constant watering, more digging. We spent weeks on end doing this and after planting I used to miss my other farm chores.

15 years later I revisited the farm. We had split the property into several smaller pieces and sold it off. As I drove up the long unsealed driveway the work I did so long ago was now a huge part of the farm. Tall thick foliage lined the wire fences separating each section of land, the now large trees were home to many bird species as well as providing shade to livestock. Looking at the distance I could see the other tree lines lining the horizon.

That experience taught me that everything you do makes a difference, be it positive or negative. The only factor is time. We’re all aware how our environment is degrading, do something about it, even if it doesn’t seem worth it. Plant more trees in your garden – natives are very water friendly. Compost your leftovers, trade in your car for an economical one. You don’t even have to step outside your comfort zone to help out, but if you want to there are plenty of groups that donate their time and money to give back to something that supports your amazing life!