Stryker’s Environmental Alliance holds 3rd annual tree planting event

The Stryker Environmental Alliance (SEA) recently partnered with the McHenry County Conservation District (MCCD) to organize the 3rd annual tree planting event at Hickory Nut Grove in Cary, IL.

The weather wasn’t ideal, but that didn’t stop our dedicated Stryker employees from showing up and doing their part to help improve our environment. Alongside a few MCCD staff members, the group braved the cool and rainy weather together. The event combined action and education. The MCCD staff explained the history of the forest site and the unique qualities of the oak trees and hazelnut bushes that were being planted.

Making our community a greener place

The SEA team helped to plant a combination of oak trees and bushes. The red, white and bur oak trees will grow well together with the hazelnut bushes to reclaim the former farmland. Brian Ecklund, Senior Staff Engineer, and SEA member said, “It’s great to get together with members of our Stryker family – outside the office – making an impact that will last for years.”

This annual event is an example of our employees taking action to help make a difference in our local community. “It was so rewarding to see the dedication of our co-workers. Showing up with raincoats, boots, and gloves,” said Jan Sahm, Staff Project Specialist Quality Operations and SEA site lead. “There was lots of mud, but also lots of smiles. It’s a great feeling when you’re volunteering your time to help the environment,” she said.

The SEA team plans to return to the site again next year to see their plantings and continue to help our community by making an environmental impact with another tree planting event.