City of Lewes and partners to hold tree-planting event April 30

This year marks the 150th anniversary of Arbor Day and the 50th anniversary of the Arbor Day Foundation.

In recognition of Arbor Day 2022, the City of Lewes has partnered with the Delaware Urban and Community Forestry Program, and the Lewes Public Library Roots and Shoots program for a tree planting, set for 9 a.m., Saturday, April 30, at George H.P. Smith Park.

Teens from the Roots and Shoots program and their families will plant 25 native trees. The urban forester will provide information on proper tree planting and maintenance.

The City of Lewes and the Lewes library’s Roots and Shoots Program recognize the Delaware State Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program for its commitment in helping cities, towns and neighborhoods statewide improve tree canopy and tree management.

To register for this event, go to lewes.lib.de.us.

The City of Lewes has been honored by the Arbor Day Foundation with a Tree City USA designation for the 21st consecutive year. Lewes achieved this recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: having a tree board commissioner, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The City of Lewes passed a resolution in 2021 to increase the city forest canopy density from 34.2% percent to 38% over the next 10 years. To monitor progress toward that goal, the city maintains a tree inventory program called ArborScope.

Many communities are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and mental well-being, energy resources, and protection from flooding and extreme heat. Trees benefit communities by protecting them from erosion caused by wind and water, providing habitat for wildlife, producing oxygen, cleaning the air and enhancing beautification.