Lacey ‘exchanges’ tree with Yelm in honor of Arbor Month, proclaims April 22 Earth Day

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Lacey presented a tree to Yelm last Thursday at its city council meeting, continuing the cities’ long-standing tradition.

As part of Arbor Month, observed each April, Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder presented a Japanese Lilac Tree (Syringa reticulata) to Yelm Mayor Joe DePinto.

"We hope it will bring beauty to your community or many years to come," Ryder said to DePinto. 

DePinto expressed his gratitude and promised that Yelm would also present a tree to Lacey during its Arbor Day celebration, which Ryder said he would attend.

"We do have a long-standing history of exchanging trees. It's a wonderful tradition. I'm glad to keep it going," said DePinto.

Ryder said it's the 32nd year Lacey has been recognized as "Tree City USA" by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

"Since earning this award in the early 1990s, Lacey has invested 7.5 million on tree planting and care."

Ryder said the tree would grow from 15 to 30 feet tall with vivid green leaves and white blossoms in late spring.

Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder presented a Japanese Lilac Tree to Yelm Mayor Joe DePinto as part of the tradition of celebrating Arbor Month. This is what the tree's blossoms will look like.
Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder presented a Japanese Lilac Tree to Yelm Mayor Joe DePinto as part of the tradition of celebrating Arbor Month. This is what …

Earth Day on April 22

During the same meeting, the Lacey City Council officially proclaimed April 22 this year as Earth Day.

"As we proclaim Earth Day, we recognize our obligation to live up to the significance of environmental stewardship every day," a part of the proclamation read.

Lacey Water Resources Specialist Linsey Fields said the city would participate in this year's Earth Day volunteer event and student challenge hosted by the PARC Foundation in partnership with the local Lions Club.

The Lions Club chapters will present a $500 check to the school with the most student participants.

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  • johngreen

    Maybe they will cut down more trees in honor of Arbor day.

    Wednesday, April 12, 2023 Report this