Two Monte Vista girls started with a dream that has turned into a growing reality— “Trees 4 Tomorrow” was established by 13-year-old Sydney and 10-year-old Jayda Woodke and encompasses students in grades k-12.

The girls’ ultimate goal is to plant trees for the community at Monte Vista parks and schools. Last May the project was set into motion when approximately 200 shrub and tree saplings were planted by students, and a nursery was created behind Monte Vista High School. Colorado State Forest Service officials, especially Forester Sam Scalvo, have been a huge support system and will continue to help the girls as the project moves forward.

This spring the trees will be evaluated to see if they’re ready to be planted within the community, and the sisters will organize the planting of at least 400 more saplings. They also hope to dig and transplant rootballs of trees from Forest Service land, pending approval and grant monies.

As their mission continues and community involvement grows, the Woodke girls are hoping for even more support. They could use help with labor; supplies, such as gloves, shovels and soil and letters of support. Financial donations are appreciated too, as many of the grants they’d like to apply for require matching funds.

More information can be found on the Monte Vista School District’s website, monte.k12.co.us (see link to “Trees 4 Tomorrow” on left side). The girls can be reached at slvtrees4tomorrow@gmail.com or through their dad, Aaron Woodke, at Monte Vista High School, 852-3586.