Building Stronger Communities Through Tree Planting

Why do we celebrate Arbor Day?

Arbor Day is a special occasion dedicated to the planting, nurturing and celebration of trees. Observed annually in the United States on the last Friday in April, Arbor Day encourages individuals, schools and communities to take part in tree-planting activities and recognize the essential role trees play in our environment. 

The holiday was first established in Nebraska in 1872 by J. Sterling Morton, a journalist and nature advocate who recognized the need for more trees in the state’s vast, open prairies. His idea quickly gained popularity. Today, Arbor Day is observed in all 50 states and in many countries worldwide, often on dates best suited to local planting seasons.

What is the Arbor Day Foundation?

At the heart of Arbor Day’s mission is the Arbor Day Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1972 to continue Morton’s legacy. The foundation works globally to plant trees, restore forests and promote sustainability. Through partnerships with businesses, communities and individuals, the organization has planted millions of trees in forests and urban areas affected by deforestation, wildfires and climate change. Their initiatives, such as Tree City USA, encourage cities to develop urban forestry programs, while projects like Time for Trees aim to plant 100 million trees by the end of the decade.

Beyond tree planting, the Arbor Day Foundation also provides education and resources on the environmental, economic and social benefits of trees. Trees improve air quality, provide habitat for wildlife, conserve water and even enhance mental well-being. By supporting Arbor Day and the Arbor Day Foundation’s initiatives, individuals can contribute to a greener, healthier planet for future generations.

What is the Tree City USA initiative?

The Tree City USA initiative is a nationwide program developed by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. Launched in 1976, the program encourages cities and towns across the United States to develop and maintain robust urban forestry programs, promoting the long-term care and management of trees in urban spaces.

Today, more than 3,600 communities across the U.S. have earned the Tree City USA designation, making it one of the most successful urban forestry programs in the country. The initiative helps cities enhance air quality, reduce energy costs, improve stormwater management, and boost overall well-being by creating greener, healthier urban environments.

The Importance of community tree planting initiatives

While Earth Day sparked nationwide policy changes, one of its most lasting influences has been the rise of tree-planting initiatives. These programs have become essential in balancing urban expansion with environmental sustainability. As urbanization furthers humanity's footprint, it is more important than ever to preserve and establish green spaces because trees promote positive environmental impacts and have health benefits as well. Here is how:

• Environmental impact of trees: There are several environmental benefits of planting trees in urban environments. 
  • Climate control – Trees provide shade that cools streets, lowering asphalt temperatures by up to 10°F, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
  • Stormwater control – Acting as natural sponges, trees absorb excess rainwater, reducing flooding risks and preventing sewer overflows.
  • Sound dampening – Trees absorb, refract and deflect sound, helping to minimize the noise pollution often associated with city life.
  • Reduction of light pollution – The thick canopy of trees helps diffuse city lights, reducing glare and promoting a more natural night environment.
  • Air and water filtration – Trees remove pollutants from the air and filter rainwater before it reaches drinking sources—over half of America’s drinking water benefits from this process.

• Health benefits of trees: Studies have shown that the presence of trees has a positive impact on people’s overall health and mood.  
  • Mental health benefits - Did you know that even just looking at trees has been known to bring down stress levels? Multiple studies have shown that the presence of trees helps to boost mood, lower blood pressure and 85% of people say that spending extended time in nature often promotes a positive mental reset.
  • Asthma prevention – Areas with more trees have lower rates of childhood asthma, thanks to cleaner air and reduced pollutants.
  • Promote exercise – The natural beauty often draws people outdoors to explore nature. This natural draw to exploration promotes exercise and benefits people’s physical health.

• Economic benefits of trees: The presence of trees has a significant impact on local economies.
  • Increased home values – Realtor.com shared that research conducted by the Arbor Day Foundation found that homes with trees on the property see value increases ranging from 3%-15%.
  • Energy bill savings – Thanks to the shade and wind protection they provide, air conditioners do not need to work as hard to maintain your homes internal temperature. This means homeowners will not have to spend as much on their electric bill.
  • Promote social neighborhoods – Inviting outdoor spaces encourage social interactions and increase the social bonds of a community. According to the US Forestry Service, studies have shown that a 10% increase in the tree canopy of an area could reduce crimes like theft, burglary and shootings by as much as 12%, promoting safer, healthier neighborhoods. 

AAA’s Arbor Day initiative with the Arbor Day Foundation

Because AAA believes in the lasting impact that tree-planting initiatives have both globally and in local communities, we have partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation. As a result of this partnership, we have committed to planting 50,000 trees across our footprint states. Over time, these trees will lead to cleaner air, improved soil quality, and environmental restoration in areas severely impacted by storm events.

Every tree planted today is an investment in tomorrow. Whether you plant one in your backyard or support larger initiatives, your actions matter. Visit www.arborday.org to explore ways you can make a difference—because a greener future starts with you.