Arbor Day

We LOVE trees and we know lots of you do as well. Trees are crucial to the survival of our planet. They remove CO2 and pollutants therefore reducing the “heat island effect”. They also preserve soil by decreasing storm water run-off, and provide shade and shelter for many animals.  ​

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​The first Arbor Day took place in Nebraska on April 10, 1872.  J. Sterling Morton was secretary of the Nebraska Territory and a huge advocate for trees.  He proposed a tree holiday to encourage citizens and civic groups to plant them.  Prizes were awarded to individuals and counties for properly planting the most trees. Over 1 million trees were planted on that first Arbor Day in Nebraska. Robert W. Furnas was the Nebraska Governor that officially proclaimed Arbor Day on April 10, 1874.  Arbor Day became a legal Nebraska state holiday in 1885, when it was decided that it would be observed annually on April 22. 

 

​Arbor Day was celebrated in more than 45 states and territories by 1920. Today all 50 states acknowledge the critical role trees play in our survival by recognizing the event. Many states observe the holiday on the last Friday in April, but that date may vary depending on the best time to plant trees. That is why Florida Arbor Day takes place on the third Friday in January.  

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We will be hosting an Arbor Day celebration on Saturday, January 16th at a local community site. The event will include a presentation on proper tree planting and care, led by an experienced arborist. A tree giveaway will follow from, offered on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

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All available plants will be native or regionally appropriate species. For those who may not have space for larger plants, smaller shrubs will also be provided. Arborists will be on hand throughout the event to offer guidance on caring for newly planted trees and shrubs.

A variety of species will be available.

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This event and plant distribution are made possible through support from several community partners and organizations. We are grateful for the collaborative effort that helps make this annual celebration successful.

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Some of you tree huggers may be looking to plant a tree in the future.  Click the button below for a guide that gives you all the info on how to plant those trees and how to take care of it for years to come.