Arbor Day promotes the planting, upkeep, and preservation of trees. First celebrated in Nebraska City in April 1872, the concept has spread not only across the United States but to about 31 other countries across the globe. In 1970, in conjunction with the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of other environmental legislation, Arbor Day became a nationally designated celebration of trees, frequently marked by planting more trees.
Back in 1907, when Theodore Roosevelt wrote a letter to school children marking Arbor Day, he stressed the importance of trees in terms “of what they yield in adornment, comfort, and useful products to the communities.” Today, we treasure trees not only for what they provide to us in terms of beauty, shade, wood products, and other economic benefits like lower energy costs and increased property values but for the integral part they play in the sustainability of our planet.
What may not be appreciated, though, is that trees, especially indigenous species, are essential to maintaining healthy flora and fauna in all stages of their life cycle, even in their various stages of decay. Some sources say up to 25% of forest animals, including 20% to more than 60% of forest birds, depend on snags—dying or dead trees. A lack of snags in an area can cause the decline of some animal species.
Click on our new 2024 Glossary words, snag and stump, to learn why you should consider snags as an alternative to removing dying or dead trees if you wish to create inviting habitats for pollinators and other wildlife on your property. Also watch three video clips of wildlife utilizing snags—as sources of food and nesting material—and logs for basking.
Arbor Day should remind us not only of the benefits of planting native trees but of keeping more of those that are dying and dead because they still host many forest lives.