The day began with the planting of the Arbor Day Tree. A beautiful European Hornbeam was planted. During the planting, the general characteristics of this tree species were discussed hinting at the ‘right tree, right location’ concept. Kids interacted with Parks and Recreation staff by helping shovel dirt into the hole and answering general questions about tree structure and the functions of its parts. 

For the rest of the afternoon the students were divided up into four groups to rotate between 15 minute programs led by Parks and Recreation and Williams Brothers’ Tree and Lawn Service and the Department of Forestry. The Williams Brothers’ brought their tree climbing gear and showed the little ones how they do it and how they do it safely. The Department of Forestry’s Patti Nylander talked to the children about the importance of trees and how to plant the sapling each child received.  Parks and Recreation had the most fun of all with the kids making Sticky Pinecone Birdfeeders. Kids got messy as they learned about how birds and other animals rely on trees for food and shelter.  The kids also had time to express their creativity with “Trees Are Good” coloring and activities books.