Why the name Alderleaf?
In the Pacific Northwest, the red alder tree (Alnus rubra) is often the first tree to return to a damaged ecosystem. It grows rapidly and helps fertilize the soil through fixing nitrogen and dropping its leaves. It helps prepare the ground for the return of mature old-growth tree species such as western red cedar and western hemlock. In many ways, the red alder is the bridge between an ecosystem out of balance and a healthy old-growth forest. In todays world we are experiencing an environment far out of balance. With increasing climate change, the rapid depletion of natural resources, and a strong cultural disconnect from nature, much work is needed to restore cultural and biological balance. Alderleaf strives to be like the red alder, providing much needed support to promote healthy, sustainable relationships with the natural world. Thus the name serves us as a powerful metaphor, reminding us of the important work and education needed at this crucial time in history.
