Arbor Day originated in 1872 to recognize importance of trees

Arbor Day originated in 1872 to recognize importance of trees

Arbor Day, the annual, international celebration of planting and caring for trees, originated in Nebraska in 1872 to address the scarcity of trees on the prairie. The first Arbor Day resulted in over 1 million trees planted. By 1920, 45 states and territories celebrated it, and president Richard Nixon officially proclaimed the last Friday in April as National Arbor Day in 1970. While the last Friday in April is the traditional national observance, many states observe it at different times to coincide with the best local planting weather. The holiday emphasizes the importance of trees for conservation, soil, shade, fuel and building materials.