If a rum runner or coal miner of the late 1800’s saw the incredible cityscape of what is now Lethbridge they would surely be shocked to see how green it is. It is hard to believe that in the beginnings Lethbridge was only vast prairie. Now... What I want you to do is look out your window and notice all the trees. Have you ever considered how they got here? Well, I’ll tell you. Every tree that you see in Lethbridge (other than the native poplars along the river) has been planted, watered and cared for by residents of our lovely city. Incredible isn’t it? In some neighbourhoods we are caretakers of trees that were the first of their kind in our area. Trees that have suffered through more than one hundred years of winter, chinook wind, and drought. In fact we should be thankful to these first settlers for their foresight as these trees have tempered for us the harsh conditions of the prairie seasons. Today areas with a canopy of green are now the location of choice to take a walk, relax, or even enjoy a meal. These areas are also more desirable and more valuable to those who dwell in these locations. Our trees hold valuable historical evidence in their core.
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| Planting trees along Parkside Drive beside Henderson |
Trees weren’t as easy to take care of as they are now with things like plumbing. At the time Dr.Fairfield brought trees from the Oldman river valley and planted them at the experimental farm watering was done by carrying it in a wagon from the Oldman River to the remote area where these trees were planted. (Now known as the Research Center on the East side of the city) Some of these trees are the oldest and largest of their kind in our area. Over the years trees have been planted next to a new business, in the front of a new homes, and to create park spaces like Henderson Lake, the Japanese Gardens, and Nicholas Sheran Park . Incredible care was surely taken to help those young trees get a good start in their long life. We are still stewards over these trees today and can ensure their continued longevity. There are certain things we can do to properly care for our trees so that they will live long and stay strong. Pruning, nutrition, variety, location, are all things to be considered when either caring for existing trees or choosing ones for a new location. Improper care can cause the decline of these giants among us. We are a young city and are only now realizing the value of our trees. Just as they have in the past we too can leave a mark that will last far beyond our journey by planting and caring for the trees around us.
Happy Gardening!
Kirsten