Asheville celebrates trees at Arbor Day 2017

On Friday, April 28, 2017, the City of Asheville celebrated Arbor Day and our 37th year as a Tree City USA.

City Councilor Brian Haynes read the 2017 Arbor Day Proclamation and Ranger Dillon Michael of the North Carolina Forest Service explained what it takes to be a Tree City.
 
"To be considered a Tree City USA, a city must meet four standards," said Ranger Michael. "The city must have a tree board, a tree protection ordinance, spend at least $2.00 per capita on trees and hold an Arbor Day observance and proclamation." With the help of Asheville GreenWorks, the City of Asheville has achieved Tree City USA status for 37 years running.

Tree planting at Carrier Park for Arbor Day and "30 Trees in 30 Days" Tree Planting Initiative in partnership with the City's Department of Parks & Recreation. (photo by Jillian Wolf)

Professional arborists from the Blue Ridge Arborists Association were on hand to help with proper tree planting and to show off their tree climbing skills. The arborists gave away trees for participants to plant at home.
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In addition to 30 trees in 30 days (actually 31 trees in 30 days), GreenWorks has planted 175 trees throughout Asheville and Buncombe County since January 1, 2017. At this rate, Asheville is well on its way to achieving Tree City USA status for yet another year.

Executive Director Dawn Chavez (center) speaks to group assembled for Arbor Day celebration at Carrier Park, 4/28/2017. Also pictured (from left) Lynn Brailsford, City Councilor Brian Haynes, City Arborist Mark Foster, Ranger Dillon Michael. (Photo by Jillian Wolf)

​Friday also marked the culmination of the City's Parks and Recreation Department's and GreenWorks' joint tree planting initiative, "30 Trees in 30 Days." From March 28th to April 28th, volunteers planted trees at park facilities including, Shiloh Complex, Grant Center, Carrier Park, Aston Park, Riverside Cemetery and Recreation Park. The final planting of nine trees was held at Carrier Park with volunteers and students from after school programs at the Grant Center and the Boys and Girls Club.

Arborists from Blue Ridge Arborists Association demonstrating tree climbing techniques at Arbor Day event. (photo by Jillian Wolf)