South Jefferson County News

May 3, 2023 – Fourth grade students in Lakewood put their personal touch on Westborough Park this week when they planted “Jeff,” “Angel” and others – all new trees they named as part of Arbor Day celebrations in Lakewood.

In addition to the Westborough plantings, Lakewood has received the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA Growth Award. In recognition of these accomplishments, Mayor Paul joined the students and staff members to speak about the importance of a diverse urban tree canopy and proclaimed April 28, 2023, Arbor Day in Lakewood.

Dana Coehelo, of the State Forest Service, and Luke Killoran, of Lakewood’s Forestry Division, were joined by U.S. Forest Service mascots Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl to educate the students on the value of tending to trees, the importance of a diverse tree canopy and the value that a thriving urban forest provides to their community.

Students from Bear Creek K-8 planted six deciduous trees, taking their learning from the classroom into their community. Forestry Supervisor Killoran said, “May 3rd's tree planting at Westborough Park helps build a healthier environment for future students and community members to enjoy.”

Students were split into groups to plant trees throughout the park, which is near their school. Lakewood city staff members guided each group through best practices, safety precautions and setting up their saplings for success. Each group used shovels to plant the rootball, mulched around the radius of the tree and named each tree. Park employees staked the trees in place to anchor and protect their growth while Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl exchanged high-fives with students celebrating their participation.

The Tree City USA Growth Award is presented by the Arbor Day Foundation to participating Tree City USA communities that demonstrate higher levels of tree care and community engagement during the calendar year. Lakewood also was named as a Tree City USA award winner for the 41st year.

For more information on Lakewood’s Forestry Division, visit Lakewood.org/Forestry.

Original source can be found here.