Lacey celebrates Arbor Month and Earth Day with community events

Lacey officially proclaimed April Arbor Month, celebrating the city's longstanding commitment to tree preservation.

The proclamation marks Lacey’s 33rd consecutive year as a designated Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

“Trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen and provide habitat for wildlife,” the proclamation read.

The proclamation also highlighted Arbor Day’s origin dating back to 1872 when Sterling Morton proposed the idea to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture. Arbor Day serves as a global observance, recognizing the vital role of trees in environmental conservation and community well-being.

According to Deputy Mayor Malcolm Miller, the city has invested nearly $7.5 million in tree planting and maintenance since the early 1990s and distributed over 32,000 free tree seedlings to residents.

The city's commitment extends to nurturing trees in public spaces, boasting over 6,000 formal street trees, and maintaining more than 1,200 acres of parkland and open space.

Chris Vacarro, City of Yelm Building Official, expressed gratitude for Lacey's partnership and shared Yelm's commitment to urban forestry, citing their 28-year pursuit of Tree City USA certification.

“Lacey has served as a wonderful sister city to Yelm,” said Vacarro. “It's been incredible the tree exchange that we've done over these years. We've come across some very interesting species.”

Arbor Day is a global observance that recognizes the vital role of trees in environmental conservation and community well-being.

Earth Day

In addition to honoring Arbor Month, Lacey gears up for Earth Day with community events.

Ali Brown, Lacey Water Resources Specialist, highlighted upcoming events celebrating both Arbor Month and Earth Day.

Brown invited residents to a tree giveaway event at Huntamer Park on April 6. Attendees will have the opportunity to receive native trees and shrubs on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 9:00 a.m.

The event encourages residents interested in planting native pollinator gardens or seeking low-growing trees to beautify their surroundings.

Brown also announced another volunteer initiative scheduled for April 20, at Wonderwood Park. This event, known as the "Volunteer Circus," focuses on fostering community bonds while engaging in stewardship activities in public spaces.

Collaborating with the Park Foundation and the local Lions Club, the event aims to incentivize participation by offering cash rewards to schools based on attendance.

Last year, the Lions Club awarded a $500 prize for the school with the highest participation, with plans to increase the reward up to $1,500 this year.