Lakewood celebrated Arbor Day and its 43rd year as a Tree City USA community with a youth-led tree planting event at O’Kane Park, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to urban forestry and environmental education.
The City of Lakewood, Colorado celebrated Arbor Day on May 1 at O’Kane Park, marking its 43rd year as a Tree City USA community. Local scout troops joined city officials, including Council Member Isabel Cruz and representatives from the Colorado State Forest Service, for a day of tree planting, environmental education, and community engagement. The event began with a proclamation recognizing the importance of trees, followed by remarks on environmental stewardship and a visit from Smokey Bear to inspire the young participants.
Scouts from Packs 437, 537, and 847 worked in teams alongside Lakewood forestry staff to plant deciduous trees throughout the park. As part of the hands-on activity, they learned proper planting techniques and safety practices, applied mulch, and even gave their newly planted trees names. Forestry Supervisor Eric Shardlow provided guidance on long-term tree care and emphasized the ecological, social, and health benefits of a diverse and thriving urban forest.
Lakewood’s Arbor Day event not only promoted environmental education but also reinforced the city’s commitment to sustainable urban forestry practices. In 2024, the city planted more than 500 trees and continues to meet the Arbor Day Foundation’s standards for Tree City USA status, including maintaining a tree board, having a tree ordinance, and investing in urban forestry. The celebration highlighted Lakewood’s ongoing efforts to enhance its green infrastructure and engage the next generation in environmental stewardship.
FULL STORY: Lakewood celebrates Arbor Day and 43 years of Tree City USA
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