Biochar Branch Monitors

Help us turn innovative ideas into real-world impact by becoming a Biochar Branch Monitor! We’re tracking nearly 500 native and climate-resilient trees planted across Kenosha, Racine, Port Washington, Sheboygan, Two Rivers, and Green Bay—and we need your help to collect the data that will shape future urban conservation efforts. Our treatment group of newly planted trees received biochar, a soil amendment designed to improve soil health and support long-term tree success; Our control group was planted without the biochar soil amendment. By monitoring these trees, you’ll play a direct role in helping us understand how biochar affects urban tree canopy growth and resilience over time.

No experience? No problem! We’ll provide all the training and materials you need. Monitoring is flexible and can be done independently, with a partner, or as a family activity. Join us and be part of hands-on science that’s helping our communities, our trees, and birds thrive.

Before jumping in, all volunteers are REQUIRED to participate in a brief VIRTUAL training led by Observatory staff to get you ready for this hands-on community science experience. Below you’ll find the upcoming training dates and times—we’d love to have you join us!

• Wednesday, June 3rd, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
• Thursday, June 4th, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

PLEASE SIGN UP IN ADVANCE FOR A TRAINING SESSION – HERE!