In a bid to enhance the natural landscape and promote environmental sustainability, Shelby Township is gearing up for its annual Arbor Day Tree Planting event. Scheduled for 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 30, the township invites residents to join the green initiative at the Shelby Township Activities Center at 14975 21 Mile Rd.
This year, the township aims to plant two new trees as part of its ongoing commitment to replenishing green spaces and fostering a healthier environment. Arbor Day, celebrated nationwide, serves as a reminder of the vital role trees play in purifying the air, conserving soil and water, and providing habitat for wildlife.
“The Arbor Day Tree Planting event is a cherished tradition in Shelby Township, symbolizing our dedication to preserving our natural heritage and ensuring future generations can enjoy the natural beauty we celebrate every day in Shelby Township,” Shelby Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis said. “By planting trees together, we demonstrate our commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our community.”
As part of the festivities, Shelby Township is proud to celebrate its 12th year in the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program. This recognition underscores the township's ongoing efforts to maintain a healthy urban forest and promote responsible tree management practices. With Macomb County’s largest urban forestry canopy and more than 1,300 acres of dedicated public parkland, Shelby Township is a testament to preserving green spaces for current and future generations.
In addition to the Arbor Day Tree Planting event, Shelby Township recently hosted a tree planting as part of the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center’s Earth Day celebration on April 20. Residents and staff joined forces to plant a pin oak sapling outside the nature center at 4101 River Bends Drive in River Bends Park, demonstrating the township’s commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement.
“The entire Shelby Township Parks, Recreation, and Maintenance Department is fully committed to protecting and enhancing our township’s natural spaces,” Parks, Recreation, and Maintenance Director Joe Youngblood said. “I thank the Shelby Township Senior Center members for graciously hosting this year’s tree planting event at the Shelby Township Activities Center and congratulate Nature Center Director Lizzy Schultz for another successful Earth Day Celebration. These contributions are invaluable as we work together to enhance our community’s green spaces and promote environmental stewardship.”
The Arbor Day event promises to be a community affair, with residents, local officials and environmental enthusiasts coming together to plant the trees and contribute to the township's ecological footprint.
Participants will be able to learn about tree planting techniques, environmental stewardship and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations. Visitors can also pick up information on the Shelby Township Activities Center Community Garden, the township’s Onyx Tree Trail at Mae Stecker Park and the Shelby Township Library’s new seed library.
Arbor Day is special to Shelby Township, embodying its dedication to sustainability and responsible land management. By planting trees, the township beautifies its surroundings and reinforces its commitment to a greener, more resilient community.
Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and join Shelby Township on April 30 for an afternoon of tree planting and an environmental celebration. Together, they can sow the seeds for a brighter, more sustainable future. For more information about the Arbor Day Tree Planting event, contact the Shelby Township Activities Center at info@shelbytwp.org or 586-731-0300.
Residents can also participate in the Blue Water Conservation and Green Macomb Tree and Plant Sale. Items ranges from $7-$55.
