Mayor Byron W. Brown today marked National Arbor Day with a ceremonial tree planting along Jerge Street, behind City Hall. The National Arbor Day planting was one of many citywide events which are part of the City of Buffalo’s Earth Month 2018 Celebration.
“I’m happy to continue the annual tradition of planting a tree in our community in celebration of Arbor Day,” said Mayor Byron W. Brown. “I thank the Department of Public Works and Division of Forestry for working to improve our residents’ quality of life by planting and protecting our trees citywide.”
Mayor Brown planted a Flowering Crabapple Tree, continuing an annual tradition of adding another crabapple tree to the group of trees that line the corner of South Elmwood Avenue and Jerge Drive. The newly-planted white flowering crabapple tree joined previous Arbor Day trees, some of which are more than 40 years old.
“One of the simplest things you can do to help your neighborhood, or the planet for that matter, is to plant a tree,” said Andy Rabb, Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. “Trees clean our air, cool our streets and beautify our city.”
“For the 29th consecutive year, Buffalo has been recognized as a Tree City USA,” said Ross Hassinger, City Forester. “As City Forester, I’m always excited to participate in this Arbor Day observance planting and continue our efforts to effectively manage a healthy urban forest.”
The City’s Earth Month 2018 will continue with additional events extending into May, involving a variety of businesses, community organizations, and other green supporters that are changing the landscape of our City.