The City of Reading observed Arbor Day Friday by joining the Arbor Day Foundation and the Tree City USA in planting trees at E.J. Dives Park, located in the Millmont section of Reading.
Volunteers and community leaders began at 9am planting over 26 trees around the playground and baseball field. “The trees planted are symbolic of life, being present, and blessings” said Mayor Eddie Morán.
Trees are assets to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, reduce cooling cost, remove air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.
Finishing up Friday afternoon, City Arborist Lester Kissinger Jr. and Bethany Ayers Fisher, the City’s Sustainably Manager read dedicated the trees by reading a municipal proclamation.
“This morning we panted 26 trees around E.J. Dives Playground, 5 planted in the park and the rest have lined the baseball field. We hope to promote greenery around the city hopefully get some shade back to the park” said Kissinger.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.
The City of Reading has achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
