FORT BRAGG, N.C. - In 1854, Detroit native J. Sterling Morton looked discontentedly across the treeless landscape of his 160 acre Nebraskan plot. Morton, accustomed to the green backdrop of Michigan, began planting seeds in his soil and in the minds of neighboring settlers.
Through print media and eventually the Nebraskan State Board of Agriculture, Morton spread the message that trees not only beautify the countryside, but also help protect against soil erosion and wind, provide shade, and serve as building material and a fuel source.
After sowing several of his own, Morton proposed a contest to see which county could plant the most trees. from this competition sprang the first Arbor Day, where Nebraskans planted over one million trees April 10, 1872. Enthusiasm for planting trees spread like wildfire across the nation. By the 1920's, almost every state in the U.S. observed Arbor Day.
"Other holidays repose upon the past; Arbor Day proposes for the future," said Morton.
Today, national Arbor Day is observed on the last Friday in April. This year's celebration will be April 30. Most states now hold their own celebrations during ideal planting seasons for their climate.
Fort Bragg planted 15 willow oak trees down Parham Boulevard at Simmons Army Airfield March 19, to commemorate Fort Bragg's Arbor Day. During the ceremony, Wildlife biologist Su Ann Shupp read the Arbor Day Proclamation signed by Col. Stephen Sicinski, garrison commander.
"On the installation of Fort Bragg, I urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands," Shupp read from the proclamation.
Fort Bragg's "efforts to protect ... trees" have been widely recognized via the National Arbor Day Foundation's designation of "Tree City USA" in 2005, and subsequent yearly recertification.
Additionally, Fort Bragg received two Growth Awards for its exemplary tree care, including planning, planting, maintenance, and public relations. Last year, Fort Bragg was one of 543 cities nationwide that received the Growth Award.
To learn more about Arbor Day, visit the National Arbor Day Web site at www.arborday.org.
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