City of Topeka to plant tree at Statehouse in celebration of Arbor Day

In recognition of Arbor Day, staff from the City of Topeka's Forestry Division, will plant a tree at the statehouse grounds on Friday, April 26, 2024.

Arbor Day is an annual holiday dedicated to the planting, care, and preservation of trees, observed on the last Friday of April each year.

On Friday at around 10 a.m., city staff will plant a Black Cherry tree in the northeast corner of the Kansas State Capitol Building grounds.

"We're proud to continue the tradition of Arbor Day by planting a tree on the capitol grounds and a proclamation signing," said Travis Tenbrink, Forester at the City of Topeka. "Our hope is that by celebrating Arbor Day, we'll inspire others to join us in planting trees for the benefit of our community."

Following the tree planting, Governor Laura Kelly will sign a proclamation designating Friday, April 26 as Kansas Arbor Day. The Governor will be joined by city staff, members of the Kansas Arborist Association board, representatives from the Kansas Forest Service, and the winner of the Kansas Arbor Day Poster Contest.

In addition to Arbor Day festivities, the City of Topeka is celebrating its 38th year as a proud member of Tree City USA. This membership underscores the city's dedication to urban forestry, and recognizes the significant role trees play in enhancing our community.