Submitted by The Town of Friday Harbor
In recognition of Arbor Day, Mayor Jackson issued a proclamation to declare April 12, 2024, as the Town’s official Arbor Day celebration. The Town of Friday Harbor invites the public to join the tree planting ceremony at Sunken Park scheduled at 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024.
The tree planting ceremony is in partnership with the SJI Garden Club. The Club approached the Town requesting to donate trees for public enjoyment. Two ornamental trees from Julie’s Nursery will be planted in the vacant tree wells located near the picnic area off Nichols Street.
“Our parks and the community greatly benefit from all the beautiful trees we do have,” said Mayor Jackson. “Many communities are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, extreme heat, and flooding. The addition of trees will always make a positive impact on these challenges, while immediately improving and beautifying streetscapes and other public places.”
The Town also encourages private observance of Arbor Day. Some ideas include planting trees in your own yard, hiking and enjoying nature, learning about trees and native species of plants from our own region, or volunteering for organizations that dedicate resources to the health of local woodlands.
About Tree City USA:
The Town of Friday Harbor was recently named 2023 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management. The Program has been in existence in cities and towns across America since 1976 and is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the US Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters.
Friday Harbor is celebrating its 7th year of receiving the Tree City USA designation. The program provides resources necessary for communities to manage and expand their public trees, as well as encourage residents and businesses to plant trees in their own neighborhoods.
“Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The trees being planted and cared for by the Town of Friday Harbor are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education.”
