This quarter, we are shining our community spotlight on Evan Nied. A sophomore in the Entrepreneurship Business Academy at Virginia Beach’s Kempsville High School, this young green achiever is mapping out a bright green future as the founder and CEO of Planting Shade.
Volunteers of this non-profit are working hard to increase the planting and growth of trees and tree canopy to prevent soil erosion. Evan works locally with nurseries and distributors to give citizens greater access to seedlings and planting techniques so they can plant and grow trees of their own
- What inspired you to start the nonprofit, Planting Shade? I saw a need in our area for strong environmental awareness and activism after our community faced several hurricanes and natural disasters over the last few years. Trees are extremely important in preventing erosion by strengthening our soil, which can help reduce flooding. Tree canopy is especially important for capturing pollutants in the air, and large tees have the capacity to house a vast array of animals.
- Tell us about the cool outreach project you’ve planned for the spring. On March 21, we will distribute and plant over 1,000 loblolly tree seedlings across Virginia Beach. These seedlings will be given out for free at Kempsville High School that day from 2:00–4:00 p.m. We will be planting on numerous camp grounds and university campuses, but we still need a home for several hundred of the seedlings.
- How can people get involved? We are currently looking for placed to plant the seedlings, so contact us if you have a location. If someone wants to help our organization, but can’t plant a tree, we also would appreciate any monetary contribution. You can find out how to help by clicking the “Take the Pledge” button at the front of our website.
- What tips do you have for planting seedlings and trees in our area? For tips, I would say not to dig a tree hole too deep. Digging up to the root ball and planting in the spring and fall, rather than the summer and winter, are also essential.
- What do you do for fun when you’re not saving the environment? I act as Sophomore Class President, play on the Varsity tennis team, and serve on the DECA board at my school and the state board of my youth group.
For details on this non-profit, visit plantingshade.org
Know someone (or a group) in your community working for a cleaner, greener Hampton Roads? Nominate them to be featured in our community spotlight by emailing their name and a brief description of the work they are doing to [email protected].