Submitted by the Town of Friday Harbor

Seedling giveaway

The Town of Friday Harbor is sponsoring a tree giveaway program to celebrate Arbor Day. This year’s variety is the Garry oak. These seedlings are cultivated locally, courtesy of Red Mill Farm. Become a “tree parent” and plant free seedlings this Arbor Day. Pick up seedlings from 2 to 3 p.m., April 5, at the San Juan County Courthouse lawn, while supplies last. In the event of inclement weather, the giveaway will be located in the foyer at town hall. For more information, contact the town parks department at 360-378-2810.

Named ‘Tree City’

The Town of Friday Harbor was named a 2018 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to urban forest management. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

“Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Friday Harbor make smart investments in urban forests,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits.”

Trees are assets to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits. More information on the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.