The forest industry’s need for coastal redwoods and Douglas firs in the Pacific Northwest was supplanted by the northern spotted owl’s need for habitat. The epic struggle between these opposing forces may have been the impetus for a Dr. Seuss book written in 1971 called “The Lorax.” The story’s central conflict juxtaposes conservation and greed; its protagonist, the Lorax, is famous for saying, “I speak for the trees.”
Like the Lorax, Manalapan has someone who speaks for the trees; it has the Shade Tree Committee. Shade tree is made up of seven township residents who volunteer their time and advise the Township Committee on all matters related to trees. But in addition to their regular responsibilities and in a highly coordinated effort, the Shade Tree Committee has been coming to the Manalapan Englishtown Middle School (MEMS) on or around Arbor Day for 10 years. This year they met with students from the Gamma community who witnessed an unforgettable presentation that showcased the importance of environmental protection and volunteerism.
The program began with a broad overview of Manalapan’s municipal structure and the roles played by the planning and zoning boards, the Environmental Commission, the Shade Tree Committee, Engineers, and volunteers.
It was accompanied by a picture-filled PowerPoint presentation that was narrated by certified tree expert Gary Lovallo. Mr. Lovallo’s seamless infusion of information, humor and easy style piqued curiosity and commanded attention. His mesmerizing slide show, compelling stories and breathtaking aerial shots of Manalapan captivated everyone as the inexorable connection between tree preservation and aesthetics began to take root.
Students then branched into five truncated segments that met in different rooms to contrast the interests of groups involved in building the Battleground Grand development. Mr. Lovallo and Shade Tree Vice Chair Joanne Guerron worked cooperatively with one group who considered the project from the perspective of the landowner.
Shade Tree Chair Beth Ann Fazlibegu and state forester Michael D’Errico worked with another group who evaluated ways to maximize tree preservation.
Manalapan forester Shari Spero and Shade Tree member John Harrington helped another group germinate ideas related to the site’s impact on the environment.
Township Engineer Greg Valesi and Concept Engineering Vice President Bhaskar Hilari facilitated a group that constructed ways for the developer to maximize profits.
And the fifth group viewed the project through the prism of the Planning Board; Township Committeeman Andrew Lucas and Code Enforcement Officer Mark Micali worked with these students as they assessed the project’s overall impact on the community.
After analyzing the project from these different perspectives, the students reconvened to synthesize findings and concerns. In this culminating activity, spruced-up summaries were delivered by a few students chosen to represent each group.
This experience was as fun as it was educational.
Of course, there are no northern spotted owls in Manalapan, but thanks to the efforts of the Shade Tree Committee and all the dedicated professionals who have come through MEMS over the years, a forest of critical thinkers who understand how community organizations work together to protect the environment has sprouted – and they speak for the trees.
Steve Leviton
Gamma Community
Manalapan Englishtown
Middle School
Manalapan