Many of you may have witnessed a multitude of tree plantings in the past week in celebration of Arbor Day. The festivities promote the care of the environment and spreading the joy of the outdoors, but how did this day come to be?
History of Arbor Day
In 1594 the first documented tree planting festival took place in Mondoñedo, Spain. Organized by the town’s Mayor, the event was later reinvigorated in 1805 by the town of Villanueva de la Sierra, Spain and celebrated the trees for the health and happiness they bring.
The first Arbor Day in the US took place in Nebraska City, Nebraska organized by J. Sterling Morton on April 10, 1872. On this day it is reported that nearly one million trees were planted. The planting festivities were later globalized beginning with a man named Birdsey Northrop who traveled to Japan in 1883 and spread the word about the idea.
The celebration of nature is now a common occurrence around the world, each culture celebrates at different times of year and incorporates their own spin on the festivities.
How Does the World Celebrate?
In most countries Arbor Day includes the planting of trees, however, some have given the nature-centric holiday their own spin, in some cases drawing the celebration out for weeks!
Here’s how some of the countries around the world celebrate:
BRAZIL
In Brazil, Arbor Day falls on the 21 of September to align with the beginning of spring.
CHINA
In memory of Dr. Sun Yat-sen “Father of Modern China,” Arbor Day is celebrated on the day of his passing, March 12.
NETHERLANDS
In the Netherlands, they celebrate with National Festival of Trees which teaches the youth to care for the environment by planting trees.
NAMIBIA
Every year Namibia chooses a “tree of the year” and plants it hoping to inspire the country to do the same.
How you can get involved in the future
Though the official Arbor Day for the United States has passed you can still participate! The date marks the time when it is best to plant trees and is the perfect time to go out and plant a tree with your family and friends.
Many communities throw their own tree planting celebrations on Arbor Day joining with local nurseries to distribute saplings. The Arbor Day Foundation can also help you plan your own local event! Not a nature enthusiast? Not a problem, the Arbor Day Foundation’s website also contains a list of ways you can help without getting your hands dirty.
For the Trees
General Kinematics is a proud supporter of sustainable forestry. It is important to maintain the legacy of nature for generations to come. GK builds wood processing equipment built to last with energy efficiency to preserve our natural wonders by way of sustainable equipment. Have a question about how GK can improve your processing environment? Call GK today!
