Along with their natural beauty, trees provide us with oxygen, shade, food and many other important resources. Trees also support biodiversity in our communities and can even reduce stress for us humans. This Arbor Day, join us in celebrating trees, and Illinois' state tree, the mighty White Oak.

Here are a few fun facts about the White Oak:

The USS Constitution (aka Old Ironsides) is made of white oak wood - It is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world today

White oak trees commonly reach heights of 80-100 feet

White oak barrels are preferred by many distillers, especially for aging bourbon and other American whiskies

White oaks begin to produce acorns when they are about 20 years old

The white oak is the state tree of Illinois, Connecticut, and Maryland