Arbor Month - History

It all started with one man living in a treeless community.
Photograph planting school house planting tree

Arbor Day

Arbor Day celebrations began in Nebraska in 1872. Nebraska, along with other Great Plains states, had almost no trees. Still, the region grew flourishing agricultural crops and the climate was suitable for growing trees. J. Sterling Morton believed Nebraska needed more trees. He sponsored a campaign for tree planting in Nebraska, setting aside April 10 for just that purpose. Today all 50 states observe Arbor Day on various dates, and all plant trees on Arbor Days. For more history on Arbor Day go to ArborDay.org This link leads to an external site.
Photograph of Boys Planing tree

Minnesota Beginnings

In 1876, Minnesota became the fourth state to adopt the tradition of celebrating Arbor Day. Since 1978, May has been Arbor Month in Minnesota. The warmer weather in May allows newly planted trees to get off to a good start.

Planting a tree helps create a healthy and beautiful environment for this and future generations.