Key West Mayor Teri Johnston, during the recent city commission meeting, proclaimed April 30th as Arbor Day.
Arbor Day is observed nationally to celebrate the role of trees in our lives and promote tree planting and care. The City of Key West has long recognized the importance of its trees and its environment and has been a member of Tree City USA for nine years.
Key West Urban Forester Karen DeMaria accepted the proclamation.
“Trees on publicly and privately owned property within the city are economic and aesthetic asset to the citizens,” she said, “because of their important and meaningful contribution to a healthy and beautiful community.”
She noted that planting native trees and shrubs creates a more sustainable environment that is beneficial to wildlife and easily maintained.
“The philosophy of right tree right place helps to ensure a future canopy of healthy trees,” said DeMaria. “Trees planted on private and public property help with stormwater management, energy conservation, and the economic value of the property.”
Monroe County Horticultural Agent Michelle Leonard Mularz and Misha McRae, Executive Director of the Key West Botanical Garden, joined DeMaria in accepting the proclamation.
DeMaria encouraged residents to utilize the extension service with their vast amount of information regarding the health and maintenance of trees including the most up to date information as to the best way to treat for pest issues.
In the photo: Commissioners Gregory Davila and Jimmy Weekley, Urban Forester Karen DeMaria, Botanical Garden Executive Director Misha McRae, Mayor Teri Johnston, Extension Agent Horticulturist Michelle Leonard Mularz, and Commissioners Sam Kaufman, Clayton Lopez, and Billy Wardlow. Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover is in attendance at the dais.