4-H Master Tree Stewards Visit Union County Girl Scouts

CLARK, NJ — Girl Scout Junior Troop 40710 got a crash course in trees after a visit from 4-H Master Tree Stewards from Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County Dean Talcott and Sandra Ciasco.

Talcott shared his extensive knowledge of trees with the fifth grade Girl Scout Junior girls with an informative presentation that included a presentation about the trees and a walking tour on the property at the girls’ own school, Frank K Hehnly Elementary school.

Ciasco brought not only her extensive knowledge of trees but also many years of Girl Scout experience, being a Girl Scout troop leader herself.

During the presentation, Talcott found a swamp white oak tree on school property that measures 82 feet tall with a circumference of 11 feet 2 inches. The beautiful swamp white oak tree is estimated to be around 200-years-old. The girls also looked at a red maple and a pin oak tree. Ciasco helped the girls identify leaves, branches and nuts. The girls examined a shagbark hickory nut and a “prickly ball” from a Sweetgum tree. The group also discussed how trees live and photosynthesis.

Fidurski, said the girls learned a lot and were really intrigued by the presentation. Fidurski also said it was exciting to see the girls so enthusiastic about science and nature and is grateful to the presenters for volunteering their time. Girl Scout Junior Troop 40710 is led by Danielle Fidurski and Raquel Breece.