Arbor Day- What is it all about anyway?

 With the McAllen Arbor Day race only a few days away I began to wonder exactly how the whole Arbor Day tradition began. It seems that the first pioneers that went out west realized quickly that there was something severely missing in their new world. Trees to be exact. Trees are not just great looking but they provide essential services. For example, they provide a barrier from the winds to keep the soil from eroding, they of course provide shade, provide oxygen, are a source for building materials and of course fuel.

So way back in 1872, in Nebraska, a newspaper editor had had enough of the desolation around him and started a program, Arbor Day, where citizens of the great State would plant trees as a matter of civic pride. Initially it was set up as a contest to see which counties in Nebraska could plant the most trees while telling anyone who would listen the value of planting trees. The first official Arbor Day was set up as a holiday on April 10, 1872 and the people planted approximately 1 million trees on that day. 

As time went on other States adopted the same holiday and by 1920 forty-five States had joined the tree planting party. The planting of a tree represents new life, growth and at the same time hope. Hope that the tree will grow and provide all the possible benefits as noted at the top. Therefore Arbor Day is an inspirational day, a day of regeneration, a celebration of life.

I feel fortunate to be able to take part in this years Arbor Day race. McAllen gives all runners a tree to plant after the race. I now understand that by participating in the race I will also be continuing a great tradition that started 150 years ago. So grab your trainers and a shovel and take part in this awesome event!


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