Arbor Day – Did You Know?

Arbor Day, a day to celebrate and nurture trees, is fast approaching on April 29^th. But what is Arbor Day and what is its significance? Arbor Day celebrations began in the year 1872 in Nebraska as a day set aside to plant trees. Over one million trees were planted in Nebraska on the first Arbor Day. The founder of Arbor Day was Julius Sterling Morton, who believed that not only the landscape improves from planting trees, there are also economic benefits.

• The Arbor Day Foundation is one of the world’s largest nonprofit organizations dedicated to tree planting. Over 250 million trees have been distributed and planted through the foundation.
• There are more than 3,300 communities in the United States that are recognized as part of the Tree City USA program. These cities and towns are committed to planting and caring for trees.
• There are about 174 communities in Illinois that are recognized in the Tree City USA program.
• More than 48,000 acres of rain forest land have been preserved through the Arbor Day Foundation’s work.
• All 50 states in the United States celebrate Arbor Day, although not necessarily on the same day. Local climate determines Arbor Day in many states.
• In 1970, President Richard Nixon officially declared the last Friday in April as National Arbor Day.
• Arbor Day is celebrated in other countries, but the names vary. For example, Korea has “The Tree-Loving Week” and Australia celebrates National Tree Day on the last weekend in July. Click here for a list of countries that celebrate trees.

 

Want to participate in Arbor Day celebrations? Many local communities are hosting Arbor Day events.  Check with your local park district or town for information on area Arbor Day happenings. There are also ways for individuals and homeowners to celebrate Arbor Day at their own property. Have your trees inspected for pruning and health needs. KTS provides the services of Certified Arborists trained to properly evaluate trees to keep them healthy. Of course, you can always plant a tree!

Have an idea for celebrating Arbor Day? Leave a comment!