The No. 1 annual project of the Daphne Beautification Committee and the Public Works department is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010 at Village Point Park Preserve! 

Who will be celebrating what and why? The City of Daphne will be celebrating “National Arbor Day” by distributing 19 species of 3,650 trees FREE to their residents. They hope to establish an awareness and appreciation of trees for our community.  

Those participating in making this event possible are:

The Daphne Beautification Committee members; the City of Daphne Public Works Dept.; Riviera Utilities; Daphne High School’s Future Farmers of America chapter (teacher Andy Jones); Baldwin County Master Gardeners; and Ickes Tree Service will provide FREE mulch to residents during the time of tree distribution.

Daphne is a qualified, “Tree City, USA” having met the standards of the Arbor Day Foundation, U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters who recognize towns and cities across America that meet their standards. 

In conjunction with these qualifications is the 2010 Arbor Day National Poster Contest taking place during January. This year’s theme is, “Trees Are Terrific — And Energy Wise.” DBC member Carolyn Coleman is again chairing this committee that involves fifth-grade students and teachers of local schools creating posters through artistic expression. We are proud to say that last year, Daphne’s entry won the Alabama state award. This event is sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama Urban Forestry Association, Legacy, Inc. and the governor’s office.

Arbor Day tree preparation — wrapping trees by the Daphne High School’s Future Farmers of America Chapter the week before Arbor Day.

An Arbor Day proclamation will be signed by Mayor Small and presented to the Daphne Beautification Committee members at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 1, at the City Council meeting.

Arbor Day tree planting Ceremonies take place the week of Feb. 22-26, 2010. A total of 25 15-gallon trees, including live oaks, crepe myrtle, willow oak, nutall oak and river birch, will be planted at the Al Trione Sports Complex on Whispering Pines Road in areas surrounding the Dog Park.

DBC president Dorothy Morrison is working on a “special treat” for those attending.

It’s wonderful seeing a city and its citizens working together to improve the environment for all.

Think what a difference planting 3,650 more trees will make in the City of Daphne.   

 Last year approximately 500 residents attended and the trees were gone quickly. Celebration plans are almost complete, with one important element missing. The Celebration is for YOU! 

Please come early and join your neighbors for a fun experience. Watch for details in February.     

Tomasina Werner

Daphne Beautification Committee