NSU seeks Tree Campus USA recognition

Northeastern State University is in the final stages of submitting an application to the Arbor Day Foundation for recognition as a Tree Campus USA.

The Tree Campus Advisory Committee, composed of students, faculty, facility management and community members, was established in February, 2010, and meets bimonthly. The committee has thoroughly researched the Tree Campus USA program requirements and worked to meet the "5 Standards" required for recognition.

Committee member Ronnie Grayson of the College of Business and Technology said meeting the program's criteria will create a campus that benefits the environment.

"It will also instill awareness and pride in the students, faculty and the broader community," she said. "According to the Arbor Day Foundation, NSU, if successful in its designation as a Tree Campus USA, will be the second institution in Oklahoma to be recognized, and the first among state universities."

The five standards NSU must meet are establishment of a campus tree advisory committee, a campus tree care plan, a campus tree program with dedicated annual expenditures, an Arbor Day observance and a service learning project. The standards must be met annually to sustain the designation.

NSU's committee included an Arbor Day observance as part of the Small Event-National Day of Service on Sept. 11. The project involved mulching trees on campus to improve their health and protection.

The Northeastern Student Government Association has been active in the project, donating 50 trees which have enhanced the campus environment and its sustainability potential. The value of the donated trees is calculated into the year's expenditures as required for the project.

"This calendar year, 166 trees have been planted on the Tahlequah campus," said Grayson.

Grayson is a former tree care provider and arborist certified with the International Society of Arboriculture. She also is pursuing a master's degree in industrial management with an environmental emphasis, and for her synergistic experience she chose the task of attaining recognition as a Tree Campus USA for NSU.

"I have an interest in the campus trees and a desire to bring awareness of their benefits and the significance of an effective tree care management program to the campus community," she said. "By participating in the program and meeting the standards, NSU will further align itself with its mission to empower individuals to become socially responsible global citizens by creating and sustaining a culture of learning and discovery."

Other members of the committee include grounds foreman Billy Barnett, biology professor Dr. Craig Clifford, Morgan Fogelstrom, Jade Ford, director of natural resources for Cherokee Nation Pat Gwin, Mitch Lockhart, biology instructor Monica Macklin, landscaping and grounds supervisor Boyd Smith and physical plant director Joe Spence.

"It has been an incredible experience and a privilege to work with the Tree Campus Advisory Committee on this project," said Grayson. "I wish to offer my gratitude and sincere appreciation to the committee members for their continued support and dedication to the project."