In this episode, we delve into the operations at Riverby, showcasing the meticulous efforts that go into scaling and optimizing tree planting projects. Traditionally, the team worked with about 16 crew members during planting and mixing. However, with increased demands and a drive for efficiency, the team has expanded to an impressive 36 members. This growth has necessitated doubling the size of their mixing operations.
To meet these new challenges, the Riverby team invested in custom T-mixing tables, designed to streamline the process and enhance productivity. The operation begins with receiving bare-root trees from nurseries, typically packaged as 200 trees per bag of individual species. The initial phase of the planting season is dedicated to mixing these trees—a process that takes nearly a week. This ensures the team has a continuous supply of pre-mixed trees stored in refrigerated trucks, eliminating interruptions during planting.
The mixing process is vital for creating a diverse planting scheme. Instead of planting rows of a single species, the mixed trees increase biodiversity and improve survival rates across the site. Each species mix is handcrafted to suit the specific project area and incorporates native varieties available from nurseries.
The Riverby team's commitment to innovation and ecological integrity underscores their dedication to delivering sustainable and impactful results. This behind-the-scenes glimpse highlights the strategic planning and teamwork required to execute large-scale planting operations successfully.
