“The retreat brings people together, builds community in the forest, gets participants outside and off their screens, and uses nature sustainably to heal and inspire minds and souls,” stated Great Mountain Forest Executive Director Michael Zafros. Retreat registration closes on July 30.
When I encounter a tree in the forest with a gaping hole in its aged trunk or a vine encircling its girth up into the canopy, squeezing out its breath — a tree for one reason or another clinging to life or patiently enduring — that tree, whether it be oak, pine, maple, ash or birch, is always female to me.
As climate change threatens the delicate balance of our eco-system, we are reminded daily of the profound interaction between our personal behavior and the environment.
The trees heard a constant murmuring, of individuals and of groups of people, all saying the word, maybe even chanting or occasionally yelling: “TRUNK,” TRUNK,” “TRUNK.” Hearing was never their strongest asset.
An understanding of time and maturation is at the center of the artful selection and placement of trees. There are wonderful species and varieties for almost every situation.
Unlike the monoculture problem of the Bradford pears, no more than 10 of any given species will create a wide diversity. Even some American elms are coming to town, too, and will take majestic gateway positions.
