~ Mesa, AZ- Mayor Mark Freeman has officially declared April 24 as Arbor Day in the city of Mesa. This proclamation highlights the city's ongoing commitment to tree planting and long-term urban forest management, in line with the nationally recognized observance.

In a statement, Mayor Freeman emphasized the importance of trees in maintaining strong and livable neighborhoods. "Arbor Day is a good reminder that trees do more than add beauty to our city," he said. "They provide shade, improve air quality, support local wildlife, and create spaces for families to come together. Investing in our tree canopy is a smart, long-term investment in the health and future of Mesa."

The city of Mesa has been actively working towards its Trees Are Cool Initiative, which aims to plant and record one million trees by 2050 and achieve 15% canopy coverage. This initiative combines community tree plantings, education, and data-driven planning to expand shade and improve livability across Mesa.

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One recent example of this effort is the Plant Forward: Community Action for Urban Cooling project at Reed Park. Over 75 volunteers came together to plant 100 native and desert-adapted trees and install green stormwater infrastructure to improve water efficiency and reduce urban heat. This collaborative project has earned statewide recognition, with Mesa set to receive the Ponderosa Pine Partnership Award for innovative collaboration from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management at the Arizona Arbor Day Ceremony on April 24.

In addition to this award, Mesa was also recognized by Arizona Forward in March with an Award of Distinction for Environmental Excellence in partnership with the Nature Conservancy.

Residents can explore the Reed Park project through an interactive StoryMap on the city's website.

Other highlights of Arbor Day and Trees Are Cool include a Lorax Reading event at Mesa Public Schools where Mayor Freeman, Councilmember Alicia Goforth, and other community volunteers will read The Lorax by Dr. Seuss to third-grade students at 10 elementary schools. Each student will also receive Blue Palo Verde seeds, Arizona's state tree, to germinate and plant as part of a hands-on lesson plan.

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Mesa has also been designated as a Tree City USA for the 16th consecutive year by the Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. This recognition highlights Mesa's commitment to tree care and environmental stewardship.

The city's Shade Tree Program, in partnership with Trees Matter, has provided 311 desert-adapted trees to 175 households and offered in-person training on planting, watering, and tree care. Additionally, Mesa has assisted with community training cohorts through the Tree Stewards Program led by the Arizona Sustainability Alliance and American Forests. This has resulted in over 40 trained stewards and 266 trees planted in parks, schools, and neighborhoods across Mesa.

Residents can learn more about Arbor Day and find tree care tips on the city's website at mesaaz.gov/arborday. With its ongoing efforts towards tree planting and management, Mesa is committed to creating a greener and more sustainable future for its residents.

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