Fourth and fifth grade students from the Stillaguamish Valley Learning Center (SVLC) visited Arlington’s first Heritage Tree located at Division Street and French Avenue on May 10 to see a new plaque installed at its base. The American Elm grew here naturally and is from 1772.
“A plaque was originally installed in 2004 but over the years, the plaque went missing,” said Nels Rasmussen, Stormwater Utility Lead with the city of Arlington.
The SVLC fourth and fifth graders have been studying trees in the area this year and they wondered why a plaque wasn’t installed for this tree. As part of a class project, they wrote letters to the city asking if a plaque could be installed to identify the tree.
“I wanted to show the students that their words can make a difference,” said SVLC Teacher, Cheryl Anderton. “Through their letters, they did have an impact in the community.”
“It was fun to measure the tree to determine its age,” said fourth grader, Preston Spellman. “This tree is huge!”
A few weeks ago, Rasmussen met with Anderton’s class to discuss the different trees in the area.
“We appreciate the class letting us know that the sign needed to be replaced,” said Rasmussen. “We’re always looking for ways to interact with students and the community and this a perfect opportunity.”
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