Arbor Day 2012

Right on the heels of Earth Day comes National Arbor Day, which is officially April 27, the last Friday in April. If you’re scratching your head in confusion because you were sure that different states observe Arbor Day on different dates, it’s okay, you aren’t wrong. National Arbor Day is always the last Friday in April, but many states celebrate Arbor Day when it’s the best tree planting times for their area, and that could be anytime between January and December! It’s hard to believe that it’s been140 years since the first official Arbor Day was adopted by the State of Nebraska in 1872. Other states quickly followed suit and today all fifty states have an official date for Arbor Day. It is a “tree planting” holiday for many people, but should perhaps be better known as an all encompassing “tree caring” holiday where everyone sets aside time to not only plant but care for the existing trees in their communities and the surrounding countryside. In fact, some states kick off a forest conservation week beginning the day after Arbor Day. So, this Arbor Day celebrate the beauty of trees - those incredible environmental work horses. Remember, planting and caring for trees is one of the best things we can do to enhance our world.