You may not realize it, but today is a National Holiday! The last Friday in April marks the observation of Arbor Day – a national holiday since the early 1970s. Traditionally, Arbor Day celebrations include a tree planting ceremony and emphasize caring for trees and protecting our environment.
Arbor Day started in Nebraska in 1872 and was the idea of J. Sterling Morton, who had recently moved to the state and recognized the lack of forestation in the area. He planted trees himself, but wanted to do more, and so Arbor Day was born. Morton, a journalist and editor of the Nebraska City News, promoted the event, and that year over 1 million trees were planted.
Fast forward almost 150 years and the holiday is celebrated across the country. Here in Mentor, the city’s Tree Commission typically marks the day by holding a tree planting ceremony at one of Mentor’s elementary schools, teaching students about the importance of expanding and maintaining Mentor’s urban forest.
Although this year’s ceremony will not take place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Arbor Day is still being celebrated with the planting of Lacebark Elm trees at Ridge Elementary. These trees will provide shade, beauty and enjoyment for Ridge students for years to come.
We encourage you to celebrate Arbor Day by visiting a Mentor Park and taking a walk on one of the many forested paths. Take a hike at the Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve, Edward R. Walsh Park or Veterans Park, and celebrate the majesty and magnificence of trees.
For more information on the Tree Commission, contact the Public Works department at (440) 974-5781 or pubworks@cityofmentor.com.