Lake Wales Mayor Declares April 26 as Arbor Day 2024

Mayor Jack Hilligoss proclaimed April 26, 2024, as Arbor Day in Lake Wales, urging residents to plant trees and protect local woodlands.

Hilligoss cited trees' environmental and economic benefits: they reduce soil erosion, lower heating and cooling costs, improve air quality, and increase property values. Trees also boost business districts and provide wildlife habitat.

"Trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal," Hilligoss said. He called on citizens to plant trees to "gladden the heart and promote the well-being of ourselves and all who come after us."

Arbor Day began in 1872 when J. Sterling Morton convinced Nebraska's agricultural board to set aside a day for tree planting. The first observance resulted in more than a million trees planted across the state.