Class of 1950 passes tree stewardship to Class of 2000
As alumni stroll past Rollins Chapel during reunions, many will pause to take in the spectacular display of the yellowwood tree, drooping with scented blossoms and spreading welcome shade across the Rollins Chapel lawn. This is "Mollie's Tree," and it was planted by the class of 1950 16 years ago in honor of Mollie Hughes, author of Forever Green, a guide to campus trees published by the class as its 50th reunion project. Mollie's Tree is also part of the Class of 1950 Tree Planting Program.
"Mollie's Tree," a yellowwood on the Rollins Chapel lawn (photo by Joseph Mehling '69)
|
Bob Thebodo, Grounds Supervisor and former Tree Warden, says the program began in the 1960s after storm damage and an onslaught of Dutch Elm disease devastated many campus trees. "The class stepped forward and adopted a program focused on tree replacement," he said. "As a result, Dartmouth dedicates about 10 new trees every year and the fund subsidizes their care."
Not many would think of Hanover as an urban environment, but for trees it's a long way from home. Construction, salt, and other factors work against their survival.
The Katsura tree located west of Ripley Hall, the Kentucky Coffee Tree in front of Sanborn House and several elms and maples around the Green were all planted through the program.
At their 50th reunion in 2000, the class bequeathed their program to the graduating class, which has pledged to plant a new tree each spring. At their fifth reunion in June, members of the Class of 2000 will offer a Forever Green Tree Walk, led by Thebodo.
"We want to keep the campus green," said Jay Cormier, Class of 2000. "The connection between our two classes is strengthened by the program and it's an honor to carry it on. The Class of 1950 has helped us learn how to give back to the College and mentored us in our efforts."
By DIANA LAWRENCE
|
RSS/XML Feed