Laurel Arbor Day – Tuesday, May 7,2024 – Kiwanis Park
Laurel has been recognized as a Tree City USA since 2001. This recognition means that the city has a designated board appointed by the Mayor that oversees the replacement or installation of new trees though out the city parks. Every year the city has hosted an annual Arbor Day Event in May and a tree had been planted in a park selected by the Public Works department. Eight years ago the committee decided to make the event more educational and invited all 4th graders (both public and private schools) to participate. The students meet in a park and share a lunch provided by the tree board. Following a ceremony to celebrate National Arbor Day, the students split into small groups and rotate through learning centers where educators from various government organizations teach them more about trees and nature. Over the years we have planted trees in Murray Park, Thomson and Lion’s Park. The theme each year is created by a Laurel grade student/artist. This year our Theme is Trees-Beauty and Opportunity by Quinn Butler, Student at New Life School .The theme is posted year round on a banner on the pool fence and we make t-shirts for the presenters to wear. The day is always exciting, fun and educational for the teachers, students and presenters.
The trees we plant are ususally 2” caliper and the cost is about $600/tree. This year 3 Sienna Maples will be planted near Kids Kingdom in Kiwais Park, to provide shade for the playgrouns. The city funds a portion of the event but we also look for sponsors and donors to help with the expenses. This is a wonderful way to honor a loved one or special group. If you are interested in learning more about Arbor Day and the Tree Board, please call, LuAnne Engh 406-698-0121 or Matt Wheeler 406-208-1885