Nicodemus Wilderness Project -- Global Registry of Apprentice Ecologists

I planted my native Dogwood Tree in my backyard. While I was digging the hole and preparing the soil for the tree, I saw many earthworms. This is a good sign because they aerate the soil. I also saw centipedes, which eat pests that damage the soil. I planted on Dogwood Tree, which is not only native to North Carolina, but also produces the state flower. Dogwood Trees are one of the most prevalent trees in North Carolina. They can be found from the mountains to the coast, throughout all parts of the state. The beautiful flowers of the tree blossom in the early spring and continue blooming throughout the summer.
I feel that this is a great project for people to complete because it gives you a great sense of satisfaction. I had one of my friends over to help me plant the tree and we really had a lot of fun. When we had our house built, we chose our lot because of the abundance of trees. However, when the house was completed, most of the trees had to come down. It was very disappointing, but it was an easy problem to solve. We immediately prepared the soil and started planting more trees in our yard. Planting trees helps people come together and complete a project that is fun and rewarding. This tree will be in our yard for a very long time and will grow and develop as the years go on. It will have a lasting value because it will be a home to an entire ecosystem of organisms, for as long as the tree can last.
I think this is a very important project to complete because as our country develops, more and more trees are being destroyed to make way for new businesses and homes. The need for trees is never ending and it is important for the youth to realize it. I feel that The Apprentice Ecologist Initiative is a great program because it engages the community in saving the environment. It also helps people do their part to stop global warming by reducing green house gasses, preventing soil erosion, and water pollution by cleaning up trash, recycling, and planting trees. It also ensures fresh water and oxygen and a habitat for native wildlife.
My picture is a photo of the Falls River Dam. The Dam has a nature trail above and around it and provides a beautiful view of the natural landscape. It is a picture of the native North Carolina trees in the fall with their beautiful leaves. I felt this is a great representation of natural beauty with out any tall office buildings, or commercial advertisements. People today have such hectic, busy lives, that they have no time to take in nature and appreciate it. I make it my goal to walk the 2-4 mile trail that encompasses the Dam to enjoy nature, and take in the fresh air.