Arbor Week: 8 - 13 September

A Chinese proverb states that, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is today." 

Clifton's tree planting roll-out over the course of the year has been something that the Lorax himself would have been proud of. We have received generous benefaction from the Clifton Foundation that has accounted for the planting of 300 indigenous trees in the valley. A similar number is still to follow. This is thanks to private donations towards our 100 Year Plan. 

Armed with nearly 70 indigenous trees of different species, our targeted area this year was on a slight slope which flanks the stream, in the 'Terabithia' zone, where an enormous gum tree trunk serves as a bridge over the stream. (You may need to ask the Grade 6 children about the Terabithia reference.)

With holes dug and composted (with a sprinkling of bone meal, of course), the entire school took to the project with a sense of pride and determination, and a full understanding of the reason behind the planting process. Each class was responsible for the planting, composting, and watering of our trees, ensuring that their start to life as part of Clifton's indigenous forests was as sound as could be expected.

We wonder how many Cliftonians of the future will benefit from the efforts of our current generation.......