St. Augustine is gearing up to celebrate its 43rd Annual Arbor Day Ceremony with a blend of tradition and environmental commitment. On January 16, the city will reaffirm its long-standing relationship with nature by hosting the event at Connor Park, a fixture at 5 South Street, according to City of St. Augustine. Festivities are scheduled to commence at 10:00am, spotlighting the city's dedication to its green heritage.
At the ceremony, Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline and Street Tree Advisory Committee Chair Fremont Latimer will be addressing attendees, conveying the importance of urban forestry and the city's 43-year streak as a Tree City USA designee. A Sand Live Oak tree is set to be planted by city officials as a tangible sign of St. Augustine's commitment to expanding its tree canopy, enhancing the verdant landscape of Connor Park. In what is touted as a highlight, the city’s Poet Laureate, Dr. Ann Browning Masters will recite a poem crafted specifically for the occasion.
Acknowledging the constraints of parking around the old neighborhood, those interested in joining the Arbor Day event are encouraged to consider greener modes of transportation, such as walking or biking. It's a decision that resonates with the day's ecological spirit and also alleviates the stress of finding a spot for cars in the limited space available.
Adding to the ceremonial planting, the city will offer the public an opportunity to take part in their own tree-planting endeavors. Free tree saplings, which include a selection of Persimmon, Red Cedar, Winged Elm, and Longleaf Pine, will be handed out at the ceremony itself, and also from 10:00am to 2:00pm at a drive-through lane located at 25 W. Castillo Drive. City staff will be on-hand to distribute the young trees, aiming to encourage residents to nurture the city's green footprint in their own yards, as supplies last.
For those seeking more information or wishing to handle media inquiries, the city's Communications Director, Melissa Wissel, is available. She can be contacted directly via email at [email protected] or by calling 904.293.3307.
