The Pine Trees on AU's Campus

For many, a tree is just something to provide shade, perhaps some leaves in the fall, and stress for those owning homes in the winter. But how many of us actually stop to think about them? They cannot just pop up anymore, they need pruning, and care.
If you look carefully at the pictures of the Alfred University campus pre-1940, you see a lot of open space. But look at the campus today; it is lush, full of trees, shrubs, and other flora. In an Alfred University publication of the 1936 centennial celebration (call number LD131.A349 1936) there is a timeline of important events from the beginning of this institution. Under 1936 one will find this entry: 1935 – 25,000 Norway spruce and red pine seedlings planted on unused campus land. What green founders we had, people who knew the value of shade, wood and oxygen.
In the late spring and summer the Alfred lawn is full of students enjoying the fresh air and lovely shade of these thoughtfully planted trees. These trees are also home to several sculptures, and outdoor activities such as slack lining. Slack lining is a balancing act where a line is tied between two strong trees and the participants attempt to walk between them on the taught line.
Pine trees are a coniferous species. The Norway spruce is a native to Europe and is often also sometimes referred to as the European Spruce as well. The red pine is a native to the Northeast, and is also sometimes confused with the Norway spruce.