In 1854, pioneer, journalist and agriculture expert J. Sterling Morton moved into the Nebraska territory. Morton became a prominent member of the community due to his writings and his passion for trees. Morton eventually became the secretary of Nebraska and proposed the idea of “Arbor Day.” Prizes were awarded to counties and individuals who properly planted the largest number of trees. It is estimated that more than 1 million trees were planted in Nebraska on the first Arbor Day. Arbor Day became a legal holiday in 1885 and was celebrated on Morton’s birthday. National Arbor Day is technically the last Friday in April but many states observe the day according to their best tree-planting times. (Source)
Here’s how Williamson County is celebrating Arbor Day:
In Franklin
Saturday, April 5th
10a-2p
Pinkerton Park
This celebration includes tree climbing, zip lining and other activities.
Master tree climbing instructor Tim Kovar, from Tree Climbing Planet, will guide individuals into the crown of a tree for a public tree climb with several stations. All certified equipment will be provided during this annual family friendly event.
Participants will ascend into the tree using the same rope-and-saddle method that canopy researchers use. “Getting up into a tree – being surrounded by the branches – is just a great way to explore nature,” said Tim Kovar. “Not only is it just plain fun, it connects us with the natural world in a way that not many people are exposed to.”
Davey Tree Expert Company & Adventure Works will also be offering Zip-Lining with all equipment provided.
The tree climb and Zip Line is free and open to the public. Participants must be at least six years old and be wearing closed-toe shoes. For more information please call the Event Hotline at 550-6947 or email questions at [email protected]
In Brentwood
Saturday, April 5th
11a-1p
Brentwood Library
Festivities include activities and displays for children and adults, including face painting, free hot dogs, guided tours of the Library Arboretum, a visit from the Brentwood Fire and Rescue and more.
During the program, the City will receive the Tree City, USA Award from the TN Urban Forestry Council, Brentwood’s twenty-fourth year to receive this national award, which recognizes the City’s long standing commitment to tree planting and conservation.
An annual tree planting will take place and be dedicated to the Citizens for Brentwood Green Space Committee, who work to preserve open space in the form of parks, trails, floodplains and historic sites.
