Wright-Patt resumes Arbor Day celebrations in October

Twenty-two white flowering trees are planted as part of an Arbor Day celebration on the grounds of the Wright Brothers Memorial Oct. 5.  Danielle Trevino, 88th Civil Engineer biological scientist, helps plant the trees in an effort to help create a space that can be enjoyed for generations. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Twenty-two white flowering trees are planted as part of an Arbor Day celebration on the grounds of the Wright Brothers Memorial Oct. 5. Danielle Trevino, 88th Civil Engineer biological scientist, helps plant the trees in an effort to help create a space that can be enjoyed for generations. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Arbor Day looks a little different on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although local schools were not able to join in, the process of planting trees will move forward.

Arbor Day is usually celebrated in April, but due to the pandemic, celebratory plans could not be fulfilled. But 22 white flowering trees were planted Oct. 5 at the Wright Memorial, a park that is free and open to the public.

Danielle Trevino, 88th Civil Engineer biological scientist, said, “In the case of the grounds here at Wright Memorial, we hope to create a beautiful, peaceful space to be enjoyed for generations to come.”

While Wright-Patt may be limited in its Arbor Day celebrations, there is actually something very simple all of us can do at home – plant your own tree! Trees have many benefits, not only to the environment, but also to your home. Trees can increase home value, decrease energy costs and reduce the risk of flooding. They are also great for the rest of the planet because they help moderate local climate, filter out pollutants in the air, prevent erosion and provide habitats for wildlife.

For over 20 years, Wright-Patterson AFB has been designated a Tree City USA and works hard to maintain its urban forest and local habitats. While this pandemic has changed a few things, it has not changed the need for a healthier environment. Help celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree today.

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