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The initial adventure in tree planting began in April 1991 with just a handful of volunteers. Together, they braved the elements and in a week, managed to plant 5,800 trees. Though the number may seem modest compared to today's efforts, back then, the group was aware of the difficulties posed by selecting the right sites and nurturing the biodiversity of the land.
Transformative success didn’t merely come from those planted trees; rather, the forest began to heal itself. Natural regeneration blossomed over time, contributing to an additional estimated 100,000 pine seedlings. The area, once considered lifeless, began to thrive with various species including birch, juniper, and willow, bolstering a narrative of hope and resilience.