Explore the Legacy: Join Our Walking Tour of the University’s Historic Arbors

As Arbor Day approaches, it’s a great time to appreciate trees, especially at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL). This year, the university is promoting a special 1.3-mile walking tour that showcases its remarkable trees. This initiative is part of the HealthierU employee wellness program and can be explored online or through the Footpath app.

The tour, called the Historic Tree Tour, features 27 unique trees, including ginkgoes, which have existed for 65 million years, and blackgum trees, traditionally used by Native Americans for carving and medicine. It’s a chance to stretch your legs while connecting with nature and learning about the history of these magnificent specimens.

Annalisa Davenport, assistant director of employee wellness, encourages everyone to enjoy the tour. She suggests it’s a wonderful opportunity to take a break and absorb some fresh air while getting a bit of exercise.

The Landscape Services team, led by Eileen Bergt, created this tour. They installed special redwood-colored plaques that mark each tree along the path. One notable feature of the tour is the shingle oak located near Bessey Hall. After some evaluation, it was named Nebraska’s champion shingle oak, a title that underscores its impressive stature and significance.

The Historic Tree Tour is one of 16 walking paths available through the HealthierU program, which aims to boost physical activity among the university community. Plans are in place to expand the walking experience to East Campus, with even more pathways to be added based on community ideas.

User engagement is a vital part of this initiative. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to share their suggestions for future walking paths, making it a collaborative effort to enhance well-being on campus.

Additional Insights

Trees provide more than just beauty; they offer numerous health benefits too. Studies show that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function. In fact, a survey conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association found that 82% of adults feel happier when they have access to nearby parks or green spaces. This aligns perfectly with UNL’s efforts to enhance wellness through nature.

In a growing trend to engage with nature, many universities are exploring similar programs to encourage outdoor activities. A recent social media campaign about tree health and preservation led to increased community discussions about the environment, showing just how much people value these natural resources.

So, as you enjoy the fresh air on this walking tour, remember that it’s not just about exercise—it’s about nurturing your well-being while connecting with nature. For more information, you can visit the HealthierU website.

Source link