Jill Wagner- Founder
Jill Wagner is the founder of the International Tree Society. An ethnobotanist who earned her BA degree from the University of Hawaii, at Hilo, she has taught Hawaiian horticulture, restoration, and taxonomy for ten years. She has been growing native Hawaiian species for restoration for fifteen years. She has contributed to education about Hawaiian plants and ecosystems in various ways. She has written monthly botanical sketches for the Hawaii Island Journal, and given public talks at the Kona Outdoor Circle, Kona Public Library, TREE Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - After the Dark Program, Pu'u Honua O Honaunau National Park and other places and events. She has worked with children for many years, growing and planting thousands of trees to support the native Hawaiian environment. She currently works as a horticulturist and consultant for private landowners in restoration and silviculture. She also works to collect and save seed for the future.
The vision for the International Tree Society came from an intention to create a Global community that shares in an appreciation for nature. The ancient trees of the world can live for over 4,000 years. That amazing fact stimulates a deep desire to protect them, and to consider the earth from a long life view, such as the trees have. It has brought forth a heart-felt love for the trees. Confidence in people's caring and fundamental affirmation of life makes planting a million trees, one person, one tree at a time, possible. As a global community of tree lovers we can give a gift to the earth. We can also simply share our joy in knowing the trees.
The beauty of this tree club is that the members can see other members and their trees. We can learn about the relationships of people and trees- ethnobotany, and share our love of nature. We also have an art page in which we encourage people to contribute their favorite tree art. Let us celebrate nature and dance with all beings!
In addition to honoring those individuals who care for the environment, 50% of dues collected are donated to a non-profit organization that works to protect nature.
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