A holiday rooted in hope turns 150 years old
By Alana Tucker
It seems like there are only a few things that can bring people together anymore—music, sports, and holidays.
Even then, holidays can be tricky. While most celebrations are centered around something that occurred in the past and is worth remembering, Arbor Day looks to the future and represents hope. This day acknowledges all that trees do, such as provide clean air, pure water, shade, a habitat for wildlife, healthier communities, and natural beauty.
While these benefits are important, pioneers moving to the Nebraska territory in the mid-1800s valued trees for different reasons: windbreaks, fuel, building materials, and shade from the sun. Unfortunately, the territory then lacked trees, so enthusiasts and advocates began spreading the message of the value of trees and why individuals and civic groups must plant them in human settlements.
The first Arbor Day was celebrated on April 29, 1872, in Nebraska City, Neb., when more than 1-million trees were reported to have been planted. By 1920, more than 45 states and territories celebrated Arbor Day, and today all 50 states observe the holiday. Since the holiday was a true grassroots idea, there is no right or wrong way to celebrate or participate. What matters most is planting, nurturing, and celebrating trees so communities and residents can enjoy the benefits of trees for years to come.
A host of other benefits are associated with Arbor Day, but here are a few of the biggest opportunities that citizens, municipalities, and states have noticed as they celebrate this annual holiday.