Proclamation Declaring April 28, 2017 as Arbor Day and the Month of May as Arbor Month

Arbor Day is an annual observance to celebrate the importance of trees and to promote tree planting activities.  Trees provide a multitude of benefits related to things such as energy conservation, improved health, wildlife habitat, increased property values, and contributing to the air we breathe.  Unlike other assets, trees actually appreciate (rather than depreciate) over time.  Thus, establishing and maintaining our community forest not only results in value added ecosystem services but also adds financial value to the community.

Minnesota became the fourth (4th) state to officially observe Arbor Day beginning in 1876.  In Minnesota, Arbor Day is always observed on the last Friday in April (April 28 this year).  In 1978, Minnesota also began recognizing May as Arbor Month.  This is an ideal time for individuals to plant a tree or trees in their yard or to volunteer to plant trees in a local park or open space area, which is epitomizes the essence of Arbor Day and Arbor Month.