TKS plants trees at Safaa Golf Course

In line with Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Department initiatives to boost local biodiversity and engage the KAUST community at large, an indigenous tree planting initiative was undertaken at the golf course on November 18. The work involved twenty two Grade 10 students from The KAUST School, led by science teachers Emma Nason and Mitch Mclarn.

The planting of the trees took place at the protected areas of the Safaa Golf Course which has been the result of collaboration between HSE, Facilities Management and Community Life organizations. This special area of 6.4 hectares of land was designated as protected areas on September 2018 in an effort to protect and enhance local biodiversity.

The students, led by their science teachers were putting into action some of the theory they had studied in their recent Biology classes on “Organisms and Interactions.” The students were motivated, enthusiastic and showed initiative in carrying out the task. Their efforts also led to securing several hours of Community Service Action, which is an integral part of the Middle Year International Baccalaureate Program.

All the trees that were planted were native species of tamarisk. These self-seeded trees had grew naturally at one of the sections of the golf course where golfers often play, and clearing were planned for. Instead of uprooting such local plants and disposing them as horticulture waste; biodiversity protection opportunity was seized and tamarisk were planted in one of the protected areas as a nursery for native plants.

The concept is that indigenous plants species will attract more local insects which in turn will attract a greater range of biodiversity to our campus. This is considered important for several reasons. KAUST lies on a major migration route for birds. Many break their journeys at KAUST and use the golf club as a ‘hotel’. There is water to drink, trees offering protection from predators and, when available, there are insects to help them refuel. By increasing the abundance of insects it is hoped more birds will be tempted to stop here.

Our thanks also to the workers at Safaa Golf Club for their assistance with the planting.