Governor Proclaims March 2 as Arbor Day in Tennessee

- Nashville to Host State Arbor Day Celebration -

NASHVILLE – Gov. Bill Haslam has proclaimed March 2 as Arbor Day in Tennessee to recognize the importance of trees to our state. This year’s state celebration will be held in Nashville, which has been designated a Tree City USA community.

“Arbor Day is important for reminding us of the value of trees not only in our rural areas but in our urban areas as well,” Agriculture Commissioner Julius Johnson said. “TDA is committed to improving and protecting our forest resources, which contribute a number of environmental and economic benefits.”

Nashville earned the honor of hosting this year’s state Arbor Day celebration by being recognized as the state’s Tree Board of the Year in 2011. The Arbor Day celebration will take place March 2 at 11 a.m. CST in Centennial Park. Mayor Karl Dean and other state and local officials will plant trees in honor of current and late community leaders.

Citizens can also show their support for Arbor Day by visiting local retail nurseries and garden centers for Tennessee grown trees. Selecting locally grown trees not only add value to your home but help 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.

Arbor Day is a national observance, which is recognized at different times based on a region’s ideal conditions and climate for tree planting and care. Arbor Day in Tennessee is always recognized the first Friday in March.

TDA’s Division of Forestry works to protect and enhance forests that cover 14 million acres and provide more than 60,000 jobs. Forests also help promote clean water, wildlife habitat and recreation. Last year, TDA awarded more than $100,000 in Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program grants for 17 urban tree projects statewide.

More information on the Division of Forestry and Arbor Day can be found at www.TN.gov/agriculture/forestry or www.arborday.org.