When were the Trees Planted at Chemeketa Community College?

Chemeketa Community College is located in Salem, Oregon, a city known for its lush greenery and diverse flora. Students who attend the college often comment on the natural beauty that surrounds the campus, which includes a wide variety of trees. While the campus may seem like it has been this way forever, the truth is that the trees at Chemeketa Community College actually have a fascinating history that is worth exploring.

The Early Years of Chemeketa Community College

When Chemeketa Community College was established in 1952, the campus was actually located in downtown Salem. The college quickly outgrew its original location, and in 1964, a new 108-acre site was purchased on Lancaster Drive. At the time of the move, there were only a few trees on the new campus, and the surrounding area was mostly farmland.

The 1970s: A Decade of Tree Planting

During the 1970s, there was a concerted effort to plant trees on the Chemeketa Community College campus. This was in part due to a growing awareness of the need to preserve the environment, and also because the college wanted to create a beautiful and inviting campus for its students.

Many of the trees that were planted during this time were chosen for their aesthetic value. The college's groundskeepers planted a wide variety of species, including maple, oak, spruce, and pine trees, and they made sure to plant them strategically throughout the campus to create a sense of symmetry and balance.

A Sustainable Campus

Trees have always been an important part of Chemeketa Community College's commitment to sustainability. In addition to providing aesthetic value, trees help to reduce the carbon footprint of the campus by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Trees also help to regulate the temperature on campus, which can reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Chemeketa Community College continues to plant trees on its campus. Today, the campus is home to more than 2,000 trees, many of which were planted during the 1970s. These trees are a reminder of the college's commitment to the environment and its dedication to creating a beautiful and sustainable campus for its students.

The Legacy of the Trees at Chemeketa Community College

The trees at Chemeketa Community College have become a beloved part of the campus's identity. They provide shade for students on hot days, and their changing colors in the fall are a source of beauty and inspiration. The legacy of the trees is also an important reminder of the college's commitment to sustainability and to creating a campus that is welcoming and accessible to all students.

The trees at Chemeketa Community College may have been planted decades ago, but their impact continues to be felt today. They serve as a reminder of the power of small actions to make a big difference, and they inspire us all to do our part to protect our environment and create a better world for generations to come.