In recognition of Arbor Day, as observed in the territory on the last Friday in September, the public is invited to participate in the department’s free native tree give-away. At least 20 different species of native trees are available for pick-up and planting, according to a press release issued Friday by the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture.
“It’s important to encourage the planting of native trees in order to maintain the biodiversity of our natural environment. Trees are essential for wildlife in the Virgin Islands, especially migratory birds, for nesting, roosting and as a food source. I encourage residents in both districts to stop by the department to pick up a tree and celebrate Arbor Day as a community,” Agriculture Commissioner Louis E. Petersen Jr. said.
Trees are available for pick-up today until supplies last at the department’s offices on St. Thomas and St. Croix. The limit is three trees per person, on a first-come, first-served basis. Approximately 400 trees will be given away as part of the 2011 Arbor Day celebration.
The first Arbor Day took place on April 10, 1872, in Nebraska, and is now celebrated throughout the nation; designated dates vary in keeping with the local climate. Variations are celebrated throughout the world, including: “Greening Week” in Japan; “The New Year’s Days of Trees” in Israel; “The Tree-Loving Week” in Korea; “The Reforestation Week” in Yugoslavia; and “The National Festival of Tree Planting” in India.
On St. Croix, visit:
VI Department of Agriculture, No. 1 Estate Lower Love
Kingshill: at the Horticulture Greenhouse
On St. Thomas, visit:
V.I. Department of Agriculture, No. 7944 Estate Dorothea
St. Thomas: at the main office parking lot
For more information, contact: Marilyn Chakroff, forestry division, at 778-0997 ext. 233.
