Trees and other forest plants are important parts of the interconnected life on Earth. A forester’s work—taking care of trees and managing forest land—is important to the well-being of the planet. You’ll learn why when you earn the Forester activity badge. Wherever you live, on a farm, in a small town, in a large city—or even in the middle of a forest—you can learn about identifying trees and planting new trees.
You might visit a forest with your Webelos den. Take your time and notice everything—all kinds of trees and other plants, animals, birds, and insects. The forest is a fascinating place.
Requirements
Do five of these:
- Make a map of the United States. Show the types of forests growing in different parts of the country. Name some kinds of trees that grow in these forests.
- Draw a picture to show the plant and tree layers of a forest in your area. Label the different layers. (If you don’t live in an area that has forests, choose an area that does and draw a picture of that forest.)
- Identify six forest trees common to the area where you live. Tell how both wildlife and humans use them. (If you don’t live in a region that has forests, read about one type of forest and name six of its trees and their uses.)
- Identify six forest plants (other than trees) that are useful to wildlife. Tell which animals use them and for what purposes.
- Draw a picture showing
- How water and minerals in the soil help a tree grow.
- How the tree uses sunlight to help it grow.
- Make a poster showing a tree’s growth rings or examine the growth rings of a tree stump. Explain how the rings tell its life history.
- Collect pieces of three kinds of wood used for building houses. Tell what kinds of wood they are and one place each of them might be used.
- Plant 20 forest tree seedlings. Tell how you planted them and what you did to take care of them after planting.
- Describe both the benefits and the harm wildfires can cause in a forest ecosystem. Tell how you can help prevent wildfire.
- Draw your own urban forestry plan for adding trees to a street, yard, or park near your home. Show what types of trees you would like to see planted.
Additional Information
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Native Plant Guide (Wissahickon Park)
Invasive Plant Guide (Wissahickon Park)
