NASHVILLE – Gov. Bill Lee has proclaimed March 1 as Arbor Day in Tennessee to recognize the importance of trees to our state. This year’s state celebration was held in Norris, which is the oldest Tree City in Tennessee, recognizing their 40th Tree City Anniversary.
“Our state Arbor Celebration is an important reminder of the value of trees in our big cities and small towns,” State Forester David Arnold said. “We also greatly appreciate the partnerships we share with local governments, tree care advocates, and the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council that help us improve urban environments through planting and management of trees.”
In Tennessee, Arbor Day is officially celebrated on the first Friday in March. In 1875, Tennessee became one of the first states to adopt this special day. The state legislature set “Bird, Flower and Arbor Day” in 1925. This law calls for educators, civic societies, and government officials to create a better understanding of nature and the importance of protecting wildlife, planting and cultivating flowers, and setting and protecting trees.
Many Tennessee communities and schools hold Arbor Day and Tree City USA recognition ceremonies throughout March and April. Tree City is a nationwide movement that provides the framework necessary for communities to manage and expand their public trees. In Tennessee, 47 communities have made the commitment to becoming a Tree City USA community.
Citizens can show their support for Arbor Day by visiting local retail nurseries and garden centers for Tennessee-grown trees. The Division’s East Tennessee Nursery also grows tree seedlings to meet forest conversation needs. Selecting locally-grown trees adds value to your home and helps ensure success with a quality product that is already acclimated to Tennessee’s growing conditions. A list of nurseries and garden centers with locally-grown trees is available at www.picktnproducts.org.
Trees are a long-term investment that need proper maintenance for vigorous and healthy growth. The best way to make sure your trees are properly taken care of is to first educate yourself about trees. For more information about how to maintain landscape trees, visit your local Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry office or www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/urban.html.
