Arbor Day
Effective Date: Monday, May 21st, 2012
WHEREAS, trees enhance and beautify our communities making them better places to work and live; and
WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees. This Arbor Day was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees throughout Nebraska; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of Arbor Day has since been expanded to encourage the planting and care of trees across the nation for the benefit of our urban, community, and rural landscapes; and
WHEREAS, trees within our communities reduce topsoil erosion, moderate temperatures, absorb air pollutants, mitigate storm water runoff, and provide habitat for wildlife; and
WHEREAS, trees provide renewable timber resources, and are used in the manufacturing of most everything from paper to fuel; and
WHEREAS, healthy and properly managed trees and forests provide environmental, economic, and social benefits to our state, improving the quality of life for all Alaskans; and
WHEREAS, since 1966, Alaska has recognized Arbor Day as a day to appreciate one of Alaska’s greatest resources, and to highlight the importance of sustainable management of trees and forests to protect Alaskans, our landscape, and our future.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim May 21, 2012 as:
Arbor Day
in Alaska, and encourage Alaskans to observe this day by participating in community related events taking place throughout the state, to appreciate the value of our vast tree and forest resources.
Dated: May 14, 2012
