Illinois Arbor Day
The first Arbor Day was celebrated in Nebraska on April 10, 1872, whenJ. Sterling Morton, an agriculturalist, civic leader, and former newspaper editor, urged Nebraska residentsto “set aside one day to plant trees, both forest and fruit.” Arbor Day was so popular that more than 45 states and U.S. territories were celebrating by 1920, and all 50 states and many countries celebrate today.Both National Arbor DayandIllinois Arbor Daytake place on the last Friday in April – April 25th.
Viewer Tip: The Arbor Day Foundationhas found thatchildren who spend time outdoors develop better learning skills and are more likely to take care of the environment as adults. This is the perfect opportunity to take your family outside and get planting! Visit www.arborday.org to find tree planting tips and more.
Fun Fact:The Illinoisstate tree is theWhite Oak.White Oak acorns and leaf budsare important food sources forbirds, deer, and rodents, and the tree’s wood is used to make a number of items – wood floors, furniture, cabinets, ships, and wine and whiskey casks.
Season: Spring
This information was provided by The Arbor Day Foundation. Learn more at www.arborday.org
