MARTINEZ, Calif. – Martinez is a recognized “Tree City USA,” and will be celebrating the value of trees Friday, March 8 as Arbor Day.
The city’s Recreation Department is inviting residents and visitors to join in a morning of nature-themed crafts and a tree planting at Susana Park.
A Tree City USA since 2003, Martinez has earned that recogniztion through its community commitment to urban forestry and its promotion of the benefits of trees.
Arbor Day dates back to a Spanish arbor plantation festival in 1594, but the first American celebration of trees was April 10, 1872 in Nebraska City, Neb.
After President Theodore Roosevelt was criticized for making conservation speeches only to lumber business owners, he agreed with Pennsylvanian Israel McCreight, who urged him to encourage conservation education for youth. Roosevelt issued his first “Arbor Day Proclamation to the School Children of the United States” April 15, 1907.
Since then, Arbor Days have been celebrated around the world with tree plantings and other conservation-themed activities.
Martinez’s Arbor Day will start at 10 a.m. Friday, March 8, at Susana Park, at the intersection of Susana and Estudillo streets, and it is free and open to the public, especially children of all ages. Those interested may call the Recreation Department, 925-372-3510.
