Springfield celebrates Arbor Day with tree planting at Mary Dryden Veterans Memorial Elementary School

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The idea of encouraging planting, protecting, and appreciating trees rose from the mind of a Nebraska pioneer, Julius Sterling Morton. On that first Arbor Day, about one million trees were planted.

Since April 10, 1872, communities around the world have found many ways to honor nature and the environment for Arbor Day. A holiday that's usually observed in late April or early May.

Springfield city leaders, federal officials, and students from Mary Dryden Veterans Memorial Elementary decided to mark this holiday on May 2, 2025, after losing a tree over school vacation.

"There was an ash tree out there that was providing shade and growing in the school yard just out front, but unfortunately it was infested with an invasive bug," said Alex Sherman, Springfield City Forester.

Before picking up the shovels, the students led the celebration with the Pledge of Allegiance, poems, and songs.

It's a long tradition that began under Congressman Richard Neal when he served as the city`s Mayor of Springfield several decades ago.

Since Congressman Neal passed the baton to Mayor Domenic Sarno, Springfield has planted thousands of trees to cool homes, improve air quality, and strengthen the community's resilience to climate change.

The School Faculty, Springfield city leaders, and federal officials wanted to teach the elementary students how a tree can resemble a child growing.

Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno told the students, "As you start to grow and have your families, you know, you become the roots and the trunk of the trees."

Now the students will be reminded of their impact on this world by looking at a growing 50-foot-tall maple tree in front of their school.