Iowa tree planting initiative planned as part of America 250 celebration
Iowa is launching a statewide tree planting initiative as pat of the state's celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa 4-H and Iowa FFA are joining forces for a youth-driven initiative to plant at least 250 trees across Iowa this year, according to a news release.
“Planting a tree is a simple act that benefits future generations,” Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig said in the release. “Through this initiative, Iowa 4-Hers and FFA members have an opportunity to honor our nation’s history while strengthening their communities."
A kickoff event will be held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Friday, April 24, in celebration of Arbor Day, the release states. A Burr Oak — the state tree — will be planted as the official America 250 tree on the fairgrounds.
“Iowa 4-H members have a long and proud history of service to communities and stewardship of natural resources,” Mitch Hoyer, director and state 4-H program leader, said in the release. “Participating in the Iowa America 250 tree planting initiative is a way for 4-H clubs to practice the 4-H pledge and use their hands in larger service. We’re pleased to support this initiative and having 4-H clubs across Iowa partner with local leaders on community projects.”
The Gretna Arbor Society planted 22 trees with City of Gretna maintenance workers digging the holes and members of the tree board and other volunteers planting the trees at park in the Lincoln Place subdivision just west of Leo Royal Park in Gretna, Neb., on Oct. 1, 2022.
Scott Johnson, executive director of the Iowa FFA Association, said FFA grows leaders, builds communities and strengthens agriculture.
“Through the Iowa America 250 tree planting initiative, FFA chapters are putting those values into action by improving our environment and investing in the future of rural communities," Johnson said in the release. "Iowa FFA is proud to support this effort as part of our commitment to leadership, service, and sustainability.”
The initiative is sponsored by the Coalition to Support Iowa Farmers and Frazier Nursery of Benton County, which will provide free regional delivery of trees April 20-23 for orders made by April 10. FFA and 4-H chapters and clubs can support local nurseries as well. Visit iowa250trees.com for more information.
For more on Iowa's celebration of America 250, visit america250.iowa.gov.
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Students at Gretna Elementary School work alongside members of the Gretna Arbor Society to plant a tree in recognition of Arbor Day on Thursda…
