Getting the latest dirt on trees

COEUR d'ALENE — Bruce Martinek enjoyed a career in forestry and resource management, so he was more than happy to get down in the dirt with students Friday.

"We’re pretty close," he said as he measured the depth of a hole the group dug at Atlas Waterfront Park. "One shovel out of each of those buckets there, then we’ll set the trees in there to see how it looks."

After a few more minutes of digging, scoring roots, adjusting and patting down dirt, the tulip trees stood straight and strong.

"What do you think?" Martinkek asked the Ramsey Elementary School students.

"Good," they answered.

City of Coeur d'Alene staff and Councilman Dan Gookin teamed with students to plant six trees — two littleleaf linden trees, and one each of western larch, Emerald City tulip, pear and honey locust — on Arbor Day.

The city, in conjunction with the Arbor Day Organization of North Idaho, also handed out tree seedlings and was presented with the Tree City USA Award for the 39th year.

"I hope that kids just learn to appreciate how cool trees are," said city Urban Forester Nick Goodwin.

He asked students to name one thing they learned about trees Friday, and answers were quick to come:

"They give us oxygen."

"Help feed animals and people."

"Provide shelter."

"Eagles live in trees."

Martinek, who is with the city's urban forestry committee, said he liked seeing the kids get their hands dirty. He said the trees they planted should be there for years to come.

"They can come back here in five or 10 years and remember doing that," he said.

From a forester's perspective, the waiting time is ideal, as trees teach patience.

"They're going to be here for them and maybe their children and beyond that," he said.