Minnesota Schools Cutting Carbon

The Itasca Community College Landscaping for Wildlife Project had the birds in mind when it was started. It also helps students, especially those in the Forestry classes. Students can stay on campus for their lab work (tree identification, scaling, etc.) Keeping the students on campus also saves gas and helps with pollution. Trees, shrubs, and bushes are kept in the natural state as much as possible for wildlife. You will see standing dead trees and downed logs also. When the trees die ICC recycles them by leaving them be – recycling the nutrients and making natural habitats for the birds and mammals.
This is ICC’s commitment to create a habitat that preserves our valuable natural resources. Trees and logs provide food, perch sites, homes and protection from the elements for more than 120 birds and mammals. The animals reduce insect problems in the trees. This cuts down on use of pesticides and fertilizer. Without the use of these chemicals we can observe the wildlife and enjoy them. Many birds can often be found in the trees on campus. The Forestry Department at ICC also makes use of our landscapes. The birds and trees on the campus are used for identification. Behind the college are acres of forest which the Forestry Department also uses.
Jackie Gallop and Gary Morin, student reporters