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McConnell AFB recognizes 'sturdiest' members -- its trees

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  People at McConnell AFB will recognize the efforts and loyalty of some its sturdiest members -- its trees as part of an Arbor Day observance on April 27. Arbor Day is nationally recognized April 29. During this day, ceremonies will be held throughout the country to promote a healthy environment through education and action.

"Tree knowledge is important because it promotes awareness of the natural world," said Tina Seemayer, 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron environmental engineer. "If we have Airmen that are aware of the natural world, we can use them as part of a  'rapid response program,' preventing invasive pests and disease from attacking our trees."

Many of the trees at McConnell AFB were planted by contractors or the 22nd CES. McConnell has one of five southern magnolias growing in the Wichita, Kan., area. Having Airmen help preserve local trees from diseases and other threats is very important said one Kansas certified arborist.

"As a natural prairie, trees are not prolific in Kansas, so each one is precious," said John R. Hoisington, McConnell AFB's Kansas certified arborist. "[This is] because of soil conditions and partial burning of prairie."

There are many trees throughout the base, from conifers that do not lose their leaves, to the seasonal deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the fall. At McConnell AFB, fruit bearing trees are discouraged in order to promote McConnell's Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard program .

"Planting trees and beatifying the area shows that McConnell is committed to having a healthy and green environment for Airmen and their families," said Mrs. Seemayer.

Some trees around McConnell AFB are "dressed."  This means that the lower branches are removed for security reasons. Dressed and other trees at McConnell provide Airmen with one of the most basic human needs -- oxygen.

"Trees make our earth's ecosystem fully mission capable," said Mrs. Seemayer. "This in turn allows McConnell's Airmen to do their mission."

Trees also provide erosion protection, shade, pollution prevention, natural habitats and much more, Mrs. Seemayer said.