“…all the people strive on Arbor Day to plant many, many trees, both forest and fruit. May the day and the observance thereof be cherished in every household, and its name and fruits become as a shower of blessing to the long lines of generations who shall succeed us.” J. Sterling Morton, Founder of Arbor Day
Arbor Day was first observed in 1872 in Nebraska. J. Sterling Morton, a lover of nature, submitted a resolution to the State Board of Agriculture ‘to set aside one day to plant trees, both forest and fruit.’ On the first Arbor Day, over one million trees were planted in Nebraska. After that, J. Sterling Morton became known as the ‘Founder of Arbor Day’.
Other states followed Nebraska’s lead and passed legislation to observe Arbor Day annually. Today, all fifty states celebrate Arbor Day.
The trees planted on Arbor Day look to the future instead of reflecting on the past. The planting of trees show our desire to provide shade, shelter and inspiration for ourselves and our children. Read more about the history of Arbor Day.
Arbor Day is celebrated on different days in different states. Iowa celebrates Arbor Day on the last Friday in April.
For more information on Arbor Day, visit the National Arbor Day Foundation website or read 'What is Arbor Day'.
