Nature Positive

For DFW, a nature positive future means we will minimize and compensate for the loss of nature measured from its current state. Put simply, it means we will “protect what is left and improve the rest” by incorporating habitat preservation, enhancement, and creation into our land use plan. Nature-positive outcomes can be measured by quantifying changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services over time.

From Vision to Action

DFW Airport’s Tree Conservation Plan protects thousands of acres of native trees and habitat across airport property. These trees play a major role in supporting biodiversity, providing wildlife habitat, improving air quality, capturing stormwater, and storing carbon. By studying trees through this kit, students mirror the work DFW does to preserve natural spaces and maintain a nature-positive airport landscape.

Vital to understanding biodiversity and ecosystem health, the Tree Scientist kit turns students into scientists exploring how trees support life and record environmental history. Through hands-on experiments, they uncover the hidden stories trees tell about growth, climate, and habitat.

Learn about:

• How trees “breathe” and cycle oxygen through a leaf respiration experiment.
• Estimate a tree’s age using bark pieces, cross-sections, or printed rings.
• Count tree rings to reveal growth patterns and past environmental conditions.
• Why trees are essential for ecosystems: producing oxygen, storing carbon, providing habitat, and improving air quality.

Kit will include:

• Materials for leaf respiration and tree ring activities.
• Sample tree parts or printed cross-sections for age estimation.
• Teacher guide to explain photosynthesis, plant respiration, growth cycles, and biodiversity connections.

*This kit will support one class, size 20–30 students, taking 45–60 minutes to complete. Grade level: K–12. Educators can register for one free kit, which includes a lesson plan. Need more materials? Click “View lesson plan & order materials” below to access the lesson plan PDF and links to purchase the items individually.

Register for your free kit here

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Lesson plan and links to materials coming soon