ARBOR DAY
The growing dependency of man upon forest resources for raw materials, products, watershed protection, conservation of certain wildlife and recreation gives added significance to Arbor Day which is set aside annually to pay tribute to trees.
Arbor Day originated in Nebraska in 1872. It was first celebrated in Texas in 1889 on George Washington’s birthday, February 22. In 1949, the Texas State Legislature adopted the following resolution:
Resolved, by the House of Representatives of the State of Texas, the Senate concurring, That the third Friday in January of each year be designated as “Arbor Day”, to be devoted to the planting and cultivation of forest, shade and ornamental trees throughout the State and to be observed for that purpose in such manner as may seem best to the people of each community; and be it further
Resolved, That the Governor of Texas be requested to issue an appropriate proclamation annually to encourage the proper observance of such “Arbor Day”.
Arbor Day can best be celebrated by planting one or more suitable trees around a school or club area or by establishing a school plantation. In addition to paying tribute to the beauty of trees, one can call attention to the importance of trees to man’s welfare. The Texas Forest Service continues to assist clubs and schools in organizing Arbor Day programs.