A living symbol of exploration and education takes root in Camas

On Thursday (April 17), Camas High School will proudly plant a rare “Moon Tree” on its campus—one of a limited number of seedlings grown from seeds flown around the Moon on NASA’s Artemis I mission. The Douglas-fir tree, a living symbol of scientific exploration, resilience, and the spirit of discovery, will be planted in a ceremony open to students, staff, and community members at 3:25 p.m.

The Artemis Moon Tree program continues a tradition that began over 50 years ago with the Apollo 14 mission, when astronaut Stuart Roosa carried seeds into lunar orbit. The Artemis I mission renewed this legacy in 2022 by flying 1,000 seeds from five tree species over 280,000 miles through space. These seeds have since germinated into saplings—living reminders of our connection to space, science, and the environment.

Camas High School is one of only a handful of schools nationwide selected to receive a Moon Tree as part of this historic initiative.

“Planting the Moon Tree is more than symbolic,” said Camas High School principal Kelly O’Rourke. “It represents our district’s commitment to curiosity, deeper learning, and preparing our students to be the explorers and innovators of tomorrow. We’re honored to be part of the Artemis generation.”

The Camas Moon Tree will serve as a permanent fixture on campus and an educational touchstone for students to explore science, space, and environmental stewardship. It also represents a connection between the past and the future—linking the pioneering spirit of the Apollo era with Artemis’ bold ambitions to return astronauts to the Moon and one day send them to Mars.

Students in Camas High School’s Green Team will help commemorate the event with a short ceremony beginning at 3:25 p.m. near the planting site on campus.

For more information on NASA’s Moon Tree program and the Artemis mission, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/moontrees

Information provided by the Camas School District.