The Bismarck Forestry Division will host a community recognition program and ceremonial planting Friday, May 3, 2013, 1:30 PM, at Dorothy Moses Elementary School, 1312 S Columbia Drive, Bismarck. The public is welcome and invited to attend. Parking for the event is available on the street.

Each year ceremonial Arbor Day trees are dedicated to local citizens whose efforts have made a significant contribution to Bismarck's urban forest. Greg Morgenson, Woody Plants Research Specialist, North Dakota State University, will be honored for his 30+ years of commitment and dedication to the field of Horticulture and Forestry through his extensive work in seedling propagation, production and plant species use. The 2013 Arbor Day theme is: “Color our World, One Tree at a Time.”

The Arbor Day Ceremony will include Apple Seed Awards presented for 2012 landscape beautification efforts of public property and Beautification Awards presented to businesses and organizations for landscaping and improving the image of their commercial properties in Bismarck. Partners in Planting, community minded sponsors that have partnered with the City to provide funds for a matching grant to help home owners plant street trees, will also be recognized during the program.

The City of Bismarck will receive the 36th consecutive Tree City U.S.A. Award and national designation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. The City will also receive a Growth Award for demonstrating environmental improvement and a higher level of tree care from the Arbor Day Foundation.

A tree planting will take place (weather permitting) at the close of the program. For more information call 355-1733.