The annual Arbor Day/Clean-Up is scheduled for 10 a.m., Saturday, April 24 along the road to Monument Lake.

Arbor Day is a national holiday designed to recognize the importance of trees. People usually celebrate the holiday by planting trees with groups of friends and/or neighbors. It is a secular day of observance when people of all ages are encouraged to plant trees. Several countries observe a similar holiday.

An Arbor Day/Clean-Up is a community-wide event combining celebrating trees with environmental stewardship. Tree care and planting, and litter removal in area parks or public spaces figure in the clean-up. This promotes environmental awareness, improves green spaces, and often showcases volunteer park cleaning efforts and educational activities.

Arbor Day tree planting and care

Arbor Day was founded in 1872 as a way to set aside a day specifically for tree planting. That idea is more important today than ever before. For this reason, participants are encouraged to have a work ethic and can-do spirit.

Planting a tree is much more than merely digging a hole. For starters, participants should select a good planting site, choose the right tree and follow planting instructions for the type of tree that is being planted.

Use the Arbor Day Foundation’s guide when planting seedlings bought from a local nursery. This helps ensure the root flare is at or near ground level. Use shelters to protect new trees from wildlife, and inspect the shelters periodically to curb growth.

When removing branches, use the three-cut method to avoid tearing the bark: one under-cut, one top-cut further out, and a final cut outside the branch collar.

Community/park cleanup instructions

Participants are encouraged to focus on removing inorganic trash such as glass, metal and plastic from around tree bases because such debris hampers growth. Participants should wear sturdy, closed-toe boots and gloves, and bring drinking water, especially during hot weather.

Bring rakes, and use trash grabbers, such as tongs or pick-up sticks for litter. Follow local guidelines for separating recycling from garbage. Check to see if the Town of Monument provides special pickup for bundled branches.

Participants are encouraged to park their vehicles at the lot on Mitchell Ave and Second St. Town of Monument Events Department coordinates annual tree plantings and community clean-ups, often in collaboration with local partners like the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce and area volunteers. To learn more email: events@tomgov.org.