Tree Talk attended the 31st Annual New York ReLeaf Conference (July 24-26, 2024) and asked attendees: What draws you to this ReLeaf Conference? Here are some of their responses.
Abraham Watkins: “I would like to explore how other people plant trees and also the techniques they use if they do something differently than we do in Schenectady.”
Ariel Ratner: “This is my first one. I’m doing an urban forestry apprenticeship so I’m coming here to further the knowledge that I’ve gained so far.”
Emily Nobel Maxwell: “I am eager to support the advancement of environmental justice through existing in and democratizing the urban forest. ReLeaf is a critical venue to advance this dialogue and practice.”
George Profous: “Seeing people I haven’t seen in a long time.”
JJ Kathe: “I coordinate the state-wide reforestation plan to establish 1.7 million acres of new forest by 2040. In all the work I do for my job I don’t get the chance often to interface with people who will actually benefit from the trees we put in the ground.”
Kathryn McKenzie: “I love my community.”
Kristin Griffiths: “It’s an excellent opportunity to learn from others and to absorb new ideas, and be inspired to go in new directions.”
Leanna Nugent: “Meeting incredible people who are doing amazing things in their municipalities. I learn something new every year.”
Matthew Case: “For the love of trees.”
Nasir Wright: “Getting to see a whole bunch of people who do what we do. We have the chance to get feedback on trees and build on that feedback.”
Travon Morris: “Communication — good to see that other people care as well. Other people might struggle with what we find easy, and vice versa.”
Rebecca Hargrave: “The people.”
Russell Clark: “The friendly people.”
Sarah Lilley: “Recently moved back to the East Coast from California and just trying to learn more about arboriculture here.”
Tony Beane: “New information. To see a credentialed speaker either confirm or disprove what we’ve been seeing of suspecting in the field.”
