The aha moment — does it ever happen to you? Do you ever run across an idea so neat but so intuitive that you stop and think, “Why didn’t I think of that?”

That could happen if you visit Tripton Park, a new city park in North Vernon, Ind. It’s a culmination of years of planning and preparation. The Jennings County Soil and Water Conservation District was an official partner in the project. The district and staff members provided countless hours of technical and consulting advice. Plus, the SWCD established several acres of wildflower pollinator plantings within the park, accessible by easy-to-walk trails. The district also assisted in tree plantings. Over 200 trees were planted within the park, including 45 different species. The emphasis was not only on improving the environment, but also on promoting environmental education.

Perhaps one of the most unique things you will find there are tiny tags on dozens of trees. “They’re QR codes,” explains Brad Ponsler, Jennings County SWCD board chairman. “All someone has to do is scan the QR code symbol with a smartphone, and they can determine the identity of the tree. Many people are curious when they see a tree and don’t know what kind of tree it is. This is a great way for them to get a quick answer while it is still fresh on their mind.”

QR technology

Andy Ertel, former Jennings County SWCD director and still a consultant to the district, was involved behind the scenes in many activities related to planning the park. He notes that while the QR code is a slick way to help people learn about nature, getting to the point where tags with QR codes could be attached to trees wasn’t quite as easy as it is for someone to use the technology now that it’s there.

“You need the right software to be able to set it up, and the park was fortunate enough to work with Bob Ertel to accomplish it,” Ertel says. “In addition, each one of these tags costs several dollars. When you tag several dozen trees, you’re making a good-sized investment.”

So far, there hasn’t been an issue with tags disappearing. They can withstand Indiana’s big weather changes and still function.

“It’s great to see people using these tags to learn,” Ertel says.

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