Wallan Environment Group and Wallan Primary School students planted more than 400 native plants to improve the school’s natural environment during a planting day last week.
Students from the school’s on-site care and supervision program during remote learning participated in the planting day along with teachers and principal Ann Stevens.
Ms Stevens said the students had a terrific time and were proud of their efforts.
The 410 total plants were comprised of 17 different local plant species including shrubs, grasses, and ground cover plants and were planted in a mulched area along the pathway to the school’s oval.
Once established, the plants will enhance biodiversity at the school and help beautify its grounds, while the mulch will help with moisture retention, weed control and encourage worm activity.
The newly planted area builds on an adjoining area of native vegetation that was planted at the school more than 10 years ago, which is now well established.
The planting project at the school was funded through a State Government Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grant.
Wallan Environment Group members John Robinson and Claudia James worked with teacher Robyn Richards to plan the project and draft the grant application.
Mr Robinson also assisted at the planting day by digging the holes for planting with a motorised auger.
The grant also funded a grade three excursion to La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary late last year, where the students explored how established habitats functioned and the connection between habitat, biodiversity and their own backyards.
