Take a deep breath in, and breathe out.
Breathing is the most basic sign of life. Oxygen makes it possible, and it all begins with plants. A single mature tree can produce enough oxygen each day to support two to four people, and, in a year, that same tree can absorb more than 48 pounds of carbon dioxide. Trees are quiet powerhouses, and their impact reaches far beyond what we can see.
At The Wilds, conservation is at the heart of everything we do. As a nonprofit conservation center, The Wilds spans more than 10,000 acres of reclaimed coal mine land. The landscape includes open pastures that are home to species such as rhinos, zebras, and giraffes, along with grasslands, forests, and lakes that support native wildlife. Because this land was once heavily disturbed by mining, some areas still face challenges such as low soil quality and limited biodiversity.
To help restore these ecosystems, The Wilds received support from Enbridge Fueling Futures and the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation to plant new trees at the Hellbender RV Campground. This project focused on increasing plant diversity, strengthening habitat, and supporting long-term environmental health. In total, 186 native trees were planted to help rebuild the landscape and create a healthier ecosystem for both wildlife and people.
These trees will do more than grow. They will provide shade and cooling for guests, improve air quality, capture and store rainwater, and create habitat for birds and other wildlife. Research shows that time spent around trees can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve focus, and support overall well-being. In many ways, these trees will quietly enhance every visit to The Wilds.
Projects like this reflect The Wilds’ ongoing commitment to conservation, education, and stewardship. By restoring native landscapes, we are investing in a healthier future for wildlife, guests, and the land itself.
Ways you can help:
- Plant a native tree to your location
- Sponsor a tree in your community
- Support responsible forestry practices
- Donate to organizations focused on conservation
- Share the importance of trees with others
The Wilds extends sincere thanks to Enbridge and Dominion Energy for their support of this project and their commitment to environmental stewardship!
