The Bismarck Forestry Division will host a ceremonial planting and community recognition program Friday, May 1st 2009, 1:30 PM, inside the Bismarck Public Works Building, 601 S. 26th Street. Ceremonial Arbor Day trees are dedicated to local citizens whose efforts have made a significant contribution to Bismarck's urban forest. This year Rebecca Haag will be honored for her nearly 30 years of service to the City of Bismarck’s Forestry Division.

Following the program a tree planting will take place (weather permitting), refreshments, and music by the St. Mary’s Central High School Hammerhead Steel Drum Band. The public is invited to attend.

The Arbor Day Ceremony will also include Apple Seed Awards that will be presented for landscape beautification efforts on public property in 2008. 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 also receive the 32nd consecutive Tree City U.S.A. Award from the National Arbor Day Foundation.

School children from the 2nd grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School will also participate in a brief program and Arbor Day tree planting at Zonta Park on May 1st at 10:00 AM in honor of Arbor Day. For more information you may call the Forestry Division at 355-1733.