Tree Committee Celebrates the Natural World with Two Events in April

The Lynnfield Tree Committee invites you to join us for two special events on April 27 and 30. Celebrate our trees and learn how you can help preserve dark skies by joining us in these free family-oriented events.

On Saturday, April 27, take a guided tour of the newly opened Lynnfield Woodlot at 1452 Main St. in celebration of Arbor Day to appreciate the trees around us and plant a birch tree. Dave Rimmer, the Greenbelt director of stewardship, will lead us through this 21-acre conservation area with more than 3,200 trees from 10 – 11 a.m. Following our walk, the tree will be planted and the Arbor Day Proclamation read. This walk is over easy terrain on a wide path that borders the Lynnfield Water District. The town holds a permanent conservation restriction on this preserved open space that Greenbelt owns and manages. A children’s activity will be offered during the walk. Please note that due to limited parking at the trail entrance those spots will be designed for people with less mobility; parking on Friendship Lane and carpooling are advised.

On Tuesday evening, April 30, from 7 – 8:30 p.m., join the Tree Committee at the Meeting House at 617 Main St. for a presentation on “Adverse Human and Environmental Effects of Light Pollution” by Dr. Mario Motta, dark sky expert and astronomer, chair of the Committee on the Medical Effects of Light Pollution, and president of the American Association of Variable Star Observers. Motta has an infectious enthusiasm for observing the night sky, an unequaled passion for preserving its natural beauty, and a dedication to sharing his experiences with others in the hopes that they, too, will come to love the stars as much as he does. Light pollution can disrupt breeding, migration, and other wildlife behaviors. Moths, for example, can congregate around streetlights to the point of exhaustion, while sea turtle hatchlings can die after becoming disoriented by artificial lighting near the shore. Humans, too, suffer because of worsening light pollution. In addition to obscuring views of the night sky, it is also a health hazard causing, among other issues, sleep disorders and depression.

Motta, a former Lynnfield resident, has been recognized for his tireless work to protect our precious night skies from the ravages of light pollution, thereby guaranteeing the future of variable star observing. He has given decades of service to amateur telescope making, public outreach, and education. The Lynnfield Tree Committee is proud to plant this year’s Arbor Day tree in honor of Motta. Please join us for both a walk among the trees and to learn more about the impact of artificial light on wildlife, habitats, and our community at these two special events.