National Arbor Day
Transform bare lands into lush forests and create a greener world for future generations. Plant a tree, nourish it, and watch it grow!
Trees are a glorious part of the planet that make the world a much better place! A vital part of the ecosystem, National Arbor Day is here to celebrate the amazing beauty and usefulness of trees.
History of National Arbor Day
Typically celebrated on the last Friday in April in the United States, National Arbor Day has origins that date back to the late 19th century. The day got its start in the American state of Nebraska when a journalist named Julius Sterling Morton proposed that his fellow Nebraskans would plant trees to show appreciation for nature and the environment. The first Arbor Day was celebrated in 1872 and the idea grew from there.
In particular, schools across the US began celebrating Arbor Day, taking the opportunity to teach kids about the importance of planting trees. Arbor Day became an official state holiday in Nebraska in 1885 and then 1883 brought the celebration to Japan, Europe and other places around the world.
By 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt declared the day by issuing the “Arbor Day Proclamation to the School Children of the United States”. Even so, it wasn’t actually until the year 1970 that Arbor Day became a day that was recognized officially throughout the nation, when President Richard Nixon recognized it along with other environmentally friendly movements.
Today, National Arbor Day continues to be an important part of the conservation efforts and the work to help promote the health of the environment.
How to Celebrate National Arbor Day
Keep connected with protecting the earth by implementing various ideas for celebrating National Arbor Day. Get started with some of these ways to enjoy the day:
Plant a Tree
One of the best ways to celebrate National Arbor Day is to take the opportunity to plant a tree. Whether you plant one in your own yard or make a donation to a tree planting organization, this is a great time to do something kind for the planet! Whether through the National Arbor Day Foundation or another environmental group, remember that trees are an ideal way to support the health of the earth.
Learn More About Trees
National Arbor Day is a perfect time to understand some of the benefits that come from trees. Learn about some of these features:
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Trees Provide Oxygen
Just like other plants, trees are amazing providers of oxygen that keep the world going.
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Trees Store Carbon.
With the ability to absorb carbon dioxide, trees are the perfect complement to humans. Plus, their storage of carbon means that they help to slow down the rate of global climate change.
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Trees Boost Wildlife
As forests are the homes for tons of different animals, a group of trees can be an important resource for various types of wildlife, including birds, insects, lichen, fungi, bats, beetles and so much more.
Visit the Father of Arbor Day Statue
Many people don’t realize that the original motivator for the beginning of National Arbor Day, Julius Sterling Morton, has a statue in his honor in Washington, DC. The “Father of Arbor Day” statue, dedicated to Morton, can be viewed in the National Hall of Fame in the nation’s capital, and this would be a great day to visit!
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