In celebration of Arbor Day on April 24, and Fort Wayne’s 30th consecutive Tree City USA award, the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department will be sharing information daily about trees throughout the week of April 24. During “Tree City Week” residents can find fun facts and important information about the benefits of trees on the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation website, fortwayneparks.org, and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @FortWayneParks.

The Arbor Day Foundation recognized the City of Fort Wayne’s commitment to our urban canopy by naming Fort Wayne a Tree City for the 30th year in a row. The city also received the Growth Award for the 15th consecutive year, which highlights innovative programs and projects as well as an increased commitment of resources for urban forestry.

The purpose of the Tree City USA program is to recognize communities across the country that are taking steps toward effective management of their public trees. Healthy trees “advertise” a healthy community, and the Tree City USA program helps a community “advertise” that it values improving its trees on behalf of its residents.

As part of Tree City Week, Chinkapin oak tree seedlings will also be available for pickup as supplies last at select locations. Residents should check Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation social media for information about pickup times and locations.