Maryland Arbor Day 2019 Celebrated

Day to Highlight Trees and Those Who Help Them Grow

Following an annual tradition, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources honored Maryland Arbor Day by delivering tree seedlings to state leadership.

The department celebrates the first Wednesday of April every year by giving away trees for planting and honoring the achievements of individuals who have contributed to the state’s tree farming industry.

Wednesday morning, Maryland Forest Service staff delivered potted red bud seedlings to Governor Larry Hogan, Comptroller Peter Franchot and Treasurer Nancy Kopp before their Board of Public Works meeting.

“Arbor Day celebrates the many benefits of trees  — beauty, clean air, clean water, raw material for wood products, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities, just to mention a few,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio told board members. “This day is also meant to encourage everyone to plant a tree. The Department of Natural Resources has provided each member of this board with a native red bud seedling, grown in the John S. Ayton State Tree Nursery in Preston.”

Additionally, board members received note cards featuring artwork from the 2019 Arbor Day poster contest, an annual event held earlier in the year for fifth graders throughout the state. Maryland First Lady Yumi Hogan once again served as a guest in selecting the winners this year; a red bud seedling was also sent to her office in appreciation.

Staff also delivered seedlings and note cards to the Maryland General Assembly, where the department and the Maryland Tree Farm Committee presented honors for tree farmers and inspectors.

Tina and William Buckel from Garrett County were named Maryland Tree Farmers of The Year 2019 and were recognized on the Senate floor by Senator George Edwards.

Dan Lewis of the Maryland Forest Service in Howard and Montgomery counties was named Tree Farm Inspector of the Year. He was recognized on the House floor by Delegate Trent Kittleman and Delegate Warren Miller.  

As Arbor Day celebrations continue throughout April, department staff and community partners will participate in tree plantings and distribute free tree seedlings to landowners through the state’s Backyard Buffers program.