Arbor Day

Arbor Day is an annual observance that celebrates the role of trees in our lives and promotes tree planting and care. As a formal holiday, it was first observed in 1872, in Nebraska, but tree planting festivals are as old as civilization. The tree has appeared throughout history and literature as a symbol of life.

Pennsylvania celebrates Arbor Day on the last Friday in April. But Pennsylvania is not the only state that celebrates Arbor Day. As a matter of fact, Arbor Day is celebrated in all fifty states. Throughout the world, people of all ages are planting trees, caring for them, and learning their value.

• In Israel, there is a New Year's Day of the Trees.
• Korea has a Tree-Loving Week.
• Iceland has a Student's Afforestation Day.
• Yugoslavia has an Arbor Day in the spring and an Afforestation Day in the fall.
• India celebrates a National Festival of Tree Planting.

Most holidays celebrate something that has happened in the past. Arbor Day reflects a hope for the future. The trees planted on Arbor Day show a concern for future generations. The simple act of planting a tree represents a belief that the tree will grow and, some day provide wood products, wildlife habitat, erosion control, shelter from the wind and sun, beauty, and inspiration for ourselves and our children.

For more information about trees, Forest stewardship and Arbor Day visit arborday.org.

To request from DCNR supplied material on Arbor day please contact Joan Clippinger of the Educational department..