Always celebrated on the last Friday of April, National Arbor Day is a day set aside to raise awareness of trees and the many benefits they provide not only to the environment, but to people and our communities as well.

Trees have the ability to reduce workplace stress and fatigue, the recovery time following medical procedures and the amount of criminal activity in communities. Trees also filter the air by removing dust and other particles with their leaves, while also providing shade in the summer and serving as a windbreak in the winter. The impact trees have on society is immeasurable and it’s why we celebrate this special day.

As the association for arborists and urban foresters, ISA encourages people to celebrate this day in any way they choose. Traditionally, many people plant a tree in recognition of Arbor Day.

Planting a tree properly can help the tree mature to its full size and ensures it will provide many benefits throughout its lifetime. Steps for proper tree planting, as well as tips on how to select the right tree can be found at TreesAreGood.org. Other ways to celebrate include going for a walk on your local community tree identification trail, going for a hike, or donating to environmental organization.

Join ISA and tree care professionals from around the world in celebrating the importance of trees to our environment, health and our world this National Arbor Day.