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The City of LaGrange held its annual Arbor Day celebration on Friday by planting trees at the revitalized Jones Street Park.

Planting trees is an Arbor Day tradition for LaGrange. The city has observed Arbor Day for a quarter century, causing LaGrange to be named a Tree City USA for more than two decades.

City Arborist Jay Bartlett spoke during the event, reminding the crowd of the importance of planting trees.

“They’re the lungs of the Earth, providing oxygen, shade and beauty for generations to come. By planting and taking care of trees, we’re not only improving our environment, but we’re also leaving a legacy for future generations,” Bartlett said. “Let’s continue to nurture and protect the incredible gifts that keep our world healthy and vibrant, and thank you all for being a part of this important event.”

LaGrange City Councilman Quay Boddie read a proclamation from Mayor Jim Arrington naming Feb. 21, 2025, as Arbor Day in LaGrange.

Trees can reduce heating and cooling costs, reduce the erosion of topsoil and provide diverse habitat for wildlife. Trees are a renewable resource, providing wood for homes, fuel for fires and countless wood products, increasing property values which enhances the economic vitality of business areas and beautifying the community wherever they are planted, the proclamation read.

Thousands of communities across the United States have committed to becoming a Tree City USA, which requires that they maintain a tree board and ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on urban forests and recognize Arbor Day.

This year’s trees were once again sponsored by members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Theta Xi Omega Chapter, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Theta Nu Lambda Chapter, who have provided the annual Arbor Day trees for many years.