Adopt Resolution #21-066 Proclaiming April 30, 2021 as Arbor Day and the Month of May as Arbor Month

The City of Ramsey has been recognized as a Tree City USA for twenty-nine (29) consecutive years (up through and including 2020 activities). One of the standards necessary to obtain this designation is the adoption of an Arbor Day proclamation. At its root, Arbor Day is a day to encourage and celebrate the planting of trees. In Minnesota, Arbor Day is officially observed on the last Friday of April, which this year, is April 30. The State of Minnesota also recognizes the month of May as Arbor Month. The attached resolution serves as the City's official observance of Arbor Day on April 30, 2021 and also recognizes May as Arbor Month.

Typically, one of the requirements to maintain the Tree City USA designation is to have an official Arbor Day observance. For example, in 2019, the City worked with the MN DNR to coordinate a ceremonial tree planting with the then Mayor, as well as a larger, interactive seedling planting with the students. However, due to the continuing public health concerns with COVID-19, this requirement has been waived again for 2021.

This case is being handled as part of staff's regular duties.

Staff recommends adopting Resolution #21-066 proclaiming April 30, 2021 as Arbor Day and the month of May as Arbor Month.

Motion to adopt Resolution #21-066 proclaiming April 30, 2021 as Arbor Day and the month of May as Arbor Month.