ARBOR DAY

The state of Nebraska lies in the midwest of the United States. Of all the states, Nebraska is the only triply landlocked state. The state's landscape comprises two major regions: the dissected till plains and the great plains. The dissected till plains is associated with gently rolling hills and hosts the two largest cities: Omaha and Lincoln, the capital. On the other hand, the Great Plains consists of the treeless prairie. Most people live near the Missouri and Platte rivers, leaving most of the other areas sparsely populated. Because of Nebraska's dry nature, the state was the first to celebrate Arbor Day in 1872.

What is Arbor Day?

Arbor in Latin means a tree. The day dates back to 1854 when journalist J Sterling Morton moved to Nebraska from Detroit. The lack of trees in the area pained him. To him, trees would act as windbreakers against the soil and also give shade. Together with other pioneers, he started a movement to plant trees around his home and encouraged others to follow into his footsteps. Morton became the first editor of the Nebraska City News, a platform that helped him spread even more advocacy for tree planting. In 1872, he proposed a day that would encourage people to plant more trees. To his relief, the agriculture board agreed to it, and after some back and forth about what the name would be, Arbor Day was finally born.

When is Arbor Day?

Arbor Day is marked on the last Friday in April. Initially, the day was set to April 10th and then moved to April 22nd to coincide with Morton's birthday. In 1989, the state holiday was moved to the last Friday in April, and therefore the dates change every year. Other states also observe this holiday, but on different days.

Is Arbor Day a public holiday?

Arbor Day is a state public holiday in Nebraska. For the other states that observe this holiday, Arbor Day is not a public holiday but a typical working day.

What is open or closed on Arbor Day?

As a state public holiday, Arbor Day is a day off to the general population. Government offices, libraries, organizations, and most businesses remain closed in Nebraska. However, some schools remain open, and it would be necessary to check with your institution to confirm any closure.

Things to do on Arbor Day?

Arbor Day is a time to take care of our natural environment. You will need to get your hands dirty and plant any plant. You may opt to plant flowers within your home, a tree in your neighborhood, or even a nearby forest.

You could also participate in organized events in your local area such as communal tree planting, exhibitions, fairs, dance and music performances in garden centers. It would also be great if you enroll and become a member of the Arbor Day Foundation. This way, you will be on the front line in supporting tree planting efforts across the globe.

At home, try to teach your children the importance of tree planting and encourage them to care for the environment. Help them plant a tree or flower at home. You can also play nature interactive games with them and work on fun activities such as drawing favorite trees with colored crayons and pencils.