Katherine Abel, a senior at Vandegrift High School, undertook a Community Action Project to plant trees on her campus as part of a beautification effort. She worked with the City of Austin Youth Forest Council since June 2023 and received a $3,000 Bright Green Futures Grant for her project.
The tree planting process spanned two years. During the first year, Abel spent time coordinating with school administration and district personnel to get approval for the project. She faced challenges such as site changes and irrigation concerns but remained persistent.
In the second year, after another summer with YFC, Abel sourced trees and supplies and organized volunteers from the National Honor Society. With guidance from her mentors at YFC, she devised a temporary irrigation system that didn’t require school district assistance.
Despite an issue accessing grant funds due to budget cycle timing, Abel rescheduled the planting for mid-December. On planting day, she successfully planted three trees in the school courtyard with help from friends and NHS volunteers.
Reflecting on her experience, Abel noted that “the actual planting is the easy part,” emphasizing that sustainability work involves outreach and connections. She advises future project leaders to “start early, stay flexible,” and persist when challenges arise.
This initiative was supported by the City of Austin. More information about trees can be found at their Tree Information Center online.
