Tree planting presentation scheduled Wednesday

Nick Campney will lead a discussion on Gaviotas, a sustainable village in Colombia, and planting trees at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the SEED Center.

During the discussion, Campney will share a photo book story of his visit to the village. Gaviotas, which was started in 1971 with the goal of being sustainable, introduced the pine tree to the area, which led to the rebirth of the rainforest. The forest now provides villagers with clean water, improved soil, two international goods and biodiesel to meet their energy needs.

The trip spawned a new initiative where Campney plans to help plant 11,000 trees locally in 2011 and 100,000 trees within three years. So far in 2011, 5,000 trees have been planted.

The discussion is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted to sponsor tree plantings.