January/February 2022: Reflecting as We Move Forward

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

Y

Reflecting as We Move Forward

ou may have read or heard that Matt Harris recently announced he will be stepping aside as our chief executive after 18 years with the Foundation and that Dan Lambe will transition into the role of president and chief executive in the new year. As we begin to move ahead in the next chapter of leadership at the Foundation, it is important to reflect on where we’ve been, what we’ve learned, and our future path.

What many of you may not know is that internally, under Matt’s leadership, there has been an intentional focus placed on empowerment, collaboration, culture, strategic growth, and talent as well as a drive to learn from our advocates and supporters. Inspiring and fostering this type of environment opened up a greater level of creative thinking. The result?

Tree planting on a global scale; new programs like carbon sequestration, #TeamTrees®, and the Tree Cities of the World™ program; engagement opportunities for our partners and supporters; the development of the Oak Society; and so much more.

Mangrove swamp in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

Replanting the World’s ‘Underwater Forests’ Reforestation efforts work to protect mangroves worldwide

I

n the world of environmental science, some animals and plants are known as “keystone species.” These species serve as the building blocks for entire ecosystems — impacting all forms of life around them like a chain of dominos.

At the Arbor Day Foundation, we’re proud to protect several keystone species. They include the American beaver, Pacific salmon, gopher tortoise, and the mangrove tree.

Mangrove trees, commonly known as “roots of the sea,” are tropical trees that grow along 469,000 acres of coastal Florida and in 118 countries worldwide. The species gets its nickname from its underwater roots, which stay firmly planted in the ocean bed while the rest of the trunk rises above the surface.

Mangroves don’t just help wildlife.

They benefit humans, too.

These trees are a wonder of biology. They’re the only species in the world that can live in saltwater, either by secreting excess salt through their leaves or blocking it at their roots.

That incredible adaptation has allowed them to provide a unique habitat for animal species of all kinds. Above the 50132501

water, lizards, snakes, and nesting birds find refuge. Below the surface, mangroves’ roots provide protected nursery areas for fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.

Arbor Day Foundation

•

Mangroves don’t just help wildlife. They benefit humans, too. Large mangrove forests stabilize shorelines, reduce erosion, protect areas from wind and flooding during severe weather, and improve water quality. They provide a food source for marine life, giving us the seafood available in our local supermarkets.

And they are much more efficient at absorbing carbon than other species, making them a key player in the fight against climate change.

In 2021, the Arbor Day Foundation helped replant mangrove habitats in Haiti, Madagascar, and Mozambique. This critical work was made possible by generous donors like you, and we can’t wait to continue our impact into 2022.

Learn more about the keystone species we support by visiting arborday.org/keystone.

211 N. 12th St.

•

Lincoln, Nebraska 68508

Matt Harris

What we owe Matt the largest debt of gratitude for is his forward thinking. By placing such a high value on our supporters and strategically hiring people at every level of the Foundation, he has set the organization up for continued growth well into the future. And while we are going through a leadership change, it doesn’t change who we are at our core — a Foundation built on passionate supporters and the power of trees.

Although Dan Lambe’s transition feels organic, it was also a thoughtful and intentional step to ensure continued growth. Dan wasn’t asked to move into this role because of a natural progression — he was asked to become the next chief executive because he is the best person for it. Dan, much like Matt, is an innovator. He has led many of the pivotal efforts over the past few years and has been inspired by our supporters every step of the way.

While we celebrate Matt as he moves on to new chapters, we are looking forward to our continued growth under Dan’s leadership and are thankful for the vital support of our members, advocates, and partners on the ground.

Dan Lambe

CHAMPIONING TREE PLANTING ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST

STAND-OUT TREE PLANTING EFFORTS SUPPORTED BY OAK SOCIETY MEMBERS Over the past year, the Arbor Day Foundation has had the privilege of working with Oak Society members to support planting projects across the country and around the world — planting trees to restore natural forests, build community tree canopy, and benefit the Earth for generations to come.

These are the types of projects Sandi Hansen, director of development, and her team really get excited about. “I love that we can connect with our Oak Society members, find what they’re passionate about, and work with them to ensure their gift can tie back to that passion,” she said. “It may be as simple as finding a project they can support in their state or as detailed as a specific project outcome such as clean water or wildlife habitat for an endangered species.”

The impact of the projects these types of gifts supported last year was widespread.

The following are just a few highlights of that impact.

SOUTH FLORIDA Ongoing efforts here are focused on reestablishing native South Florida slash pine on an area previously used as cattle pasture, which was a good fit for a Florida member wanting to make an impact on her home state. Restoring slash pine will improve the structure, composition, and function of the forest stand, which will benefit native wildlife species that forage in the ground cover plants. The goal is to establish a mixed slash pine and longleaf pine stand, allowing for future restoration of the natural ecosystem.

AUSTRALIA With the ongoing news about wildfires, one Oak Society member reached out. Her support was put to good use in Australia, where very fragmented forestland is struggling to support area wildlife. Replanting efforts are creating forested corridors to connect three area National Parks — providing better habitat for animal species and a healthier ecosystem overall.

2

A r b o r D ay F o u n d at i o n O a k S o c i e t y I n s i g h t s • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

One member’s gift was directed to Angeles National Forest, where severe wildfires have taken their toll. The charred landscape left in their wake has been devastating. Stands of big cone Douglasfir, which are only found naturally in southern California, have been greatly affected. Through replanting efforts, native big cone Douglasfir and pine stands are being restored — along with the critical habitat they provide for a variety of sensitive flora and fauna, such as the monarch butterfly. Replanting has also helped to rehabilitate the watersheds above the cities of Los Angeles and Santa Clarita.

INDIANAPOLIS With support from a member who grew up in southern Indianapolis, the Foundation partnered with many local organizations to hold tree distribution events in seven neighborhoods in that area. These are historically underserved neighborhoods with low tree canopy, and these trees will provide better air quality, flood control, and shade for recreational areas.

Through four events, a total of 1,250 oak trees were distributed to families taking part in a free lunch program through community recreation centers. Each family received planting and care instructions as well as information on the best places to plant near their homes. The trees will have a positive impact for generations to come in southern Indianapolis.

CHESAPEAKE BAY FORESTS One member — who has always been interested in tree planting due to the importance for wildlife, water quality, air quality, and climate change — focused her gift on the Chesapeake Bay Forests.

This restoration project builds on 15 years of riparian tree planting success throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed in Pennsylvania.

The program is part of the larger Pennsylvania Watershed Restoration Program, implementing critical forested buffers along the waterways in this area. The newly planted trees will filter and absorb pollution, stabilize stream banks, provide habitat, and help regulate water temperatures to ensure healthier rivers and streams.

We planted and distributed 142,697 trees thanks to the collective efforts of the five Oak Society members whose support funded these projects. If you’d like more information about how you can support projects like these, please visit arborday.org/oaksociety.

A r b o r D ay F o u n d at i o n O a k S o c i e t y I n s i g h t s • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

3

CHAMPIONING TREE PLANTING ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST

STAND-OUT TREE PLANTING EFFORTS SUPPORTED BY OAK SOCIETY MEMBERS Over the past year, the Arbor Day Foundation has had the privilege of working with Oak Society members to support planting projects across the country and around the world — planting trees to restore natural forests, build community tree canopy, and benefit the Earth for generations to come.

These are the types of projects Sandi Hansen, director of development, and her team really get excited about. “I love that we can connect with our Oak Society members, find what they’re passionate about, and work with them to ensure their gift can tie back to that passion,” she said. “It may be as simple as finding a project they can support in their state or as detailed as a specific project outcome such as clean water or wildlife habitat for an endangered species.”

The impact of the projects these types of gifts supported last year was widespread.

The following are just a few highlights of that impact.

SOUTH FLORIDA Ongoing efforts here are focused on reestablishing native South Florida slash pine on an area previously used as cattle pasture, which was a good fit for a Florida member wanting to make an impact on her home state. Restoring slash pine will improve the structure, composition, and function of the forest stand, which will benefit native wildlife species that forage in the ground cover plants. The goal is to establish a mixed slash pine and longleaf pine stand, allowing for future restoration of the natural ecosystem.

AUSTRALIA With the ongoing news about wildfires, one Oak Society member reached out. Her support was put to good use in Australia, where very fragmented forestland is struggling to support area wildlife. Replanting efforts are creating forested corridors to connect three area National Parks — providing better habitat for animal species and a healthier ecosystem overall.

2

A r b o r D ay F o u n d at i o n O a k S o c i e t y I n s i g h t s • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

One member’s gift was directed to Angeles National Forest, where severe wildfires have taken their toll. The charred landscape left in their wake has been devastating. Stands of big cone Douglasfir, which are only found naturally in southern California, have been greatly affected. Through replanting efforts, native big cone Douglasfir and pine stands are being restored — along with the critical habitat they provide for a variety of sensitive flora and fauna, such as the monarch butterfly. Replanting has also helped to rehabilitate the watersheds above the cities of Los Angeles and Santa Clarita.

INDIANAPOLIS With support from a member who grew up in southern Indianapolis, the Foundation partnered with many local organizations to hold tree distribution events in seven neighborhoods in that area. These are historically underserved neighborhoods with low tree canopy, and these trees will provide better air quality, flood control, and shade for recreational areas.

Through four events, a total of 1,250 oak trees were distributed to families taking part in a free lunch program through community recreation centers. Each family received planting and care instructions as well as information on the best places to plant near their homes. The trees will have a positive impact for generations to come in southern Indianapolis.

CHESAPEAKE BAY FORESTS One member — who has always been interested in tree planting due to the importance for wildlife, water quality, air quality, and climate change — focused her gift on the Chesapeake Bay Forests.

This restoration project builds on 15 years of riparian tree planting success throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed in Pennsylvania.

The program is part of the larger Pennsylvania Watershed Restoration Program, implementing critical forested buffers along the waterways in this area. The newly planted trees will filter and absorb pollution, stabilize stream banks, provide habitat, and help regulate water temperatures to ensure healthier rivers and streams.

We planted and distributed 142,697 trees thanks to the collective efforts of the five Oak Society members whose support funded these projects. If you’d like more information about how you can support projects like these, please visit arborday.org/oaksociety.

A r b o r D ay F o u n d at i o n O a k S o c i e t y I n s i g h t s • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

3

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

Y

Reflecting as We Move Forward

ou may have read or heard that Matt Harris recently announced he will be stepping aside as our chief executive after 18 years with the Foundation and that Dan Lambe will transition into the role of president and chief executive in the new year. As we begin to move ahead in the next chapter of leadership at the Foundation, it is important to reflect on where we’ve been, what we’ve learned, and our future path.

What many of you may not know is that internally, under Matt’s leadership, there has been an intentional focus placed on empowerment, collaboration, culture, strategic growth, and talent as well as a drive to learn from our advocates and supporters. Inspiring and fostering this type of environment opened up a greater level of creative thinking. The result?

Tree planting on a global scale; new programs like carbon sequestration, #TeamTrees®, and the Tree Cities of the World™ program; engagement opportunities for our partners and supporters; the development of the Oak Society; and so much more.

Mangrove swamp in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

Replanting the World’s ‘Underwater Forests’ Reforestation efforts work to protect mangroves worldwide

I

n the world of environmental science, some animals and plants are known as “keystone species.” These species serve as the building blocks for entire ecosystems — impacting all forms of life around them like a chain of dominos.

At the Arbor Day Foundation, we’re proud to protect several keystone species. They include the American beaver, Pacific salmon, gopher tortoise, and the mangrove tree.

Mangrove trees, commonly known as “roots of the sea,” are tropical trees that grow along 469,000 acres of coastal Florida and in 118 countries worldwide. The species gets its nickname from its underwater roots, which stay firmly planted in the ocean bed while the rest of the trunk rises above the surface.

Mangroves don’t just help wildlife.

They benefit humans, too.

These trees are a wonder of biology. They’re the only species in the world that can live in saltwater, either by secreting excess salt through their leaves or blocking it at their roots.

That incredible adaptation has allowed them to provide a unique habitat for animal species of all kinds. Above the 50132501

water, lizards, snakes, and nesting birds find refuge. Below the surface, mangroves’ roots provide protected nursery areas for fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.

Arbor Day Foundation

•

Mangroves don’t just help wildlife. They benefit humans, too. Large mangrove forests stabilize shorelines, reduce erosion, protect areas from wind and flooding during severe weather, and improve water quality. They provide a food source for marine life, giving us the seafood available in our local supermarkets.

And they are much more efficient at absorbing carbon than other species, making them a key player in the fight against climate change.

In 2021, the Arbor Day Foundation helped replant mangrove habitats in Haiti, Madagascar, and Mozambique. This critical work was made possible by generous donors like you, and we can’t wait to continue our impact into 2022.

Learn more about the keystone species we support by visiting arborday.org/keystone.

211 N. 12th St.

•

Lincoln, Nebraska 68508

Matt Harris

What we owe Matt the largest debt of gratitude for is his forward thinking. By placing such a high value on our supporters and strategically hiring people at every level of the Foundation, he has set the organization up for continued growth well into the future. And while we are going through a leadership change, it doesn’t change who we are at our core — a Foundation built on passionate supporters and the power of trees.

Although Dan Lambe’s transition feels organic, it was also a thoughtful and intentional step to ensure continued growth. Dan wasn’t asked to move into this role because of a natural progression — he was asked to become the next chief executive because he is the best person for it. Dan, much like Matt, is an innovator. He has led many of the pivotal efforts over the past few years and has been inspired by our supporters every step of the way.

While we celebrate Matt as he moves on to new chapters, we are looking forward to our continued growth under Dan’s leadership and are thankful for the vital support of our members, advocates, and partners on the ground.

Dan Lambe