Arbor Day celebration with RES to be held April 17
For the 34th year in a row, the City of Rehoboth Beach has been designated a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree City USA recognizes municipalities that are committed to planting and preserving trees through city policy and community efforts.
While recognized for this achievement for many consecutive years, Rehoboth Beach is still making strides in its environmental efforts. This year, the city received a $5,000 Delaware Department of Agriculture grant to remove invasive species from public property. As part of this grant, three invasive Bradford pear trees will be removed at the Silver Lake tot lot. In their place, five river birch trees will be planted. City Arborist Michael Lilly said the Bradford pears have overgrown the area, while the planned river birches will maintain the shady canopy but with smaller branch sizes.
The city is also in the process of planting additional street trees on Delaware Avenue. Lilly said the city is selective about the types of trees used for these efforts to ensure that they are safe for the surrounding environment and will thrive in years to come.
“Keeping our city’s tree canopy flourishing and vibrant can be challenging at times. But what’s great is people in the community love the trees,” Lilly said.
In celebration of its urban forest, the City of Rehoboth Beach will commemorate Arbor Day in conjunction with Rehoboth Elementary School during a ceremony set for 9:15 a.m., Thursday, April 17. Students and staff members will learn about the importance of trees and participate in planting efforts.
Delaware Forest Service Arbor Day poster-contest entries created by Rehoboth Elementary fourth- and fifth-grade students will be displayed in the atrium of city hall beginning Tuesday, April 22, at 229 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach.
The City of Rehoboth Beach is celebrating its 34th consecutive year as a Tree City USA. This designation highlights the city’s commitment to planting and preserving trees through city policy and community efforts.
