Celebrate Arbor Day with free trees

By Journal staff | Friday, April 11, 2008

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To help commemorate National Arbor Day, everyone who joins the Arbor Day Foundation during the month of April will receive 10 free shade trees.

National Arbor Day and South Dakota’s Arbor Day is the last Friday in April, which is April 25 this year.

The 10 free shade trees are red oak, sugar maple, weeping willow, baldcypress, thornless honeylocust, pin oak, river birch, tuliptree, silver maple and red maple. The free trees are part of the nonprofit Foundation’s Trees for America campaign.

“These trees were selected to provide shade and beauty, and a variety of forms, leaf shapes and beautiful fall colors,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “We can’t think of a better way to celebrate National Arbor Day than by planting trees.”

The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting in April or May with enclosed planting instructions. The 6- to 12- inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge.

“Planting a tree is a unique experience because you can watch it grow over the years,” Rosenow said. “It truly makes you feel a part of the planet and the future, and connects us directly to nature.”

Rosenow added that planting a tree is a perfect family tradition for parents, grandparents and children to enjoy together, because the trees will last for generations.

“Years from now, our great grandchildren will be able to say that ‘This is the tree my ancestors planted,’” he said.

To become a member of the Foundation and receive the free trees, send a $10 contribution to TEN FREE SHADE TREES, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410, by April 30, or go to arborday.org.