gathers to recognize Arbor Day

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A small group of citizens and city officials joined the Alpharetta Natural Resources Commission to celebrate Arbor Day with a tree planting at Wills Park March 4.

The commission planted a serviceberry tree beside the Alpharetta Community Garden to commemorate the holiday, which was formally recognized by Mayor Jim Gilvin and the City Council at its Feb. 27 meeting. The native, all-season tree blossoms with flowers and berries beloved by birds.

Urban Forestry Program Manager Will Eberly said the serviceberry tree, which is also planted along the median of Old Milton Parkway, is resilient and makes a nice addition to Wills Park.

“Trees promote outdoor recreation which improves human health and well-being and reduces ‘Nature-Deficit Disorder’ in children by encouraging more activity and connection to the natural world,” Natural Resources Commissioner Kate Tunison said in the proclamation.

Parks Supervisor Nate Hand added the first soil to the base of the tree, and he invited citizens to participate by pouring mulch.

Deborah Eves, city resident and owner of Alpharetta Bee Company, joined Hand in the planting, saying she is passionate about tree preserva - tion in the city.

“I came today because I am really proud that Alpharetta cares about trees and supporting our canopy and adding more trees to our city,” Eves said. “And I met a lot of great people here today from the city and learned some things and was thrilled to be part of the Arbor Day celebration we had today.”

City Arborist David Shostak said the event marks the city’s commitment to urban forestry. After the planting, he invited attendees to enjoy the nature of Wills Park to celebrate Arbor Day.

“Keeping our trees and planting more trees enhances our lives and the enjoyment of everybody,” Tunison said.