Last week, Mirak nursery worker Siranush Harutyunyan (left) selected this Scots pine as ATP’s six millionth tree, to be planted in northern Armenia
BY ANI MELKONIAN
MIKHAYLOVKA, Lori—Following a year of 25th anniversary celebrations and the inaugural Forest Summit in October, Armenia Tree Project planted its six millionth tree this fall. At a time when tree planting is trending across the globe, ATP is thrilled to reach this milestone, placing the country among others that are part of the solution against climate change.
ATP’s six millionth tree, a Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), was sourced from and planted in Armenia’s northern Lori region. The pine traveled from the Mirak Family Reforestation Nursery in Margahovit village to a 43.4 hectare (107 acre) forest being planted in Mikhaylovka Village.
Like all the other trees ATP produces, the Scots pine is a native species that commonly grows in the northern and southern regions of Armenia. The seedling was selected and unearthed by Mirak Nursery employee Siranush Harutyunyan. “All the seedlings we grow are special and beautiful to us, but I chose this particular pine because it stands taller and prouder than the rest,” explained Siranush.
Unlike ATP’s five millionth tree, which is under the care and attention of staff at the Karin Nursery, the six millionth would have to thrive in less hospitable conditions, in the wild. “Its roots are strong and healthy, so it will withstand the elements. We’re certain it’s going to survive in the front lines. It’s a real warrior,” concluded Siranush, as her coworkers nodded in agreement as they helped her carry the tree to the truck in a bucket full of soil.
About an hour later, the much-anticipated six millionth tree was given a great big welcome by ATP’s seasonal workers at the new forest site in Mikhaylovka. The northernmost village was almost entirely covered by fog, but that only added to the drama of the day.
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