This year marks the 60 millionth tree planted in our nation’s forests as part of our reforestation efforts. That’s 60 million trees that help clean our air, water, and sequester carbon. The past 26 years of tree planting wouldn’t be possible without the continuous support of our partners and our members.
To celebrate this milestone we headed to our nation’s capitol. Our friends at the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and a few of our corporate partners joined us in a 60 Millionth Tree Recognition Ceremony.
“Sixty million trees is much more than a numeric milestone,” said U.S. Forest Service Acting Associate Chief Dan Jirón. “Arbor Day Foundation’s partnership has connected generations of Americans to the importance of trees and the natural landscape by planting one tree at a time.”
As a result of the collaboration, more than 83 national forests have benefited from the Arbor Day Foundation’s replanting efforts, bringing life back to forests devastated by disaster.
It’s important that these forests are replanted within a reasonable time after a fire, insect infestation, disease or weather takes its toll. If there is too much delay, invasive species of trees and brush that are fire-prone could take over, wildlife will not have critical habitat and critical watershed areas will no longer be able to provide clean water.
This milestone tree planting reminds us how important it is to continue to replant in forests struck by natural disaster. Forests are the sustainable answer to many of the global challenges our planet faces.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was in attendance and remarked, “The 60 million tree milestone celebrated today demonstrates how public-private partnerships can achieve meaningful results that leave our lands and communities healthier and more resilient to climate change.”
We are proud of this accomplishment, but our work isn’t done. The Arbor Day Foundation, in collaboration with our partners, has committed to planting another 60 million trees. We are grateful to the partnerships that helped us achieve this and look forward to planting 60 million more.
Visit Replanting our Forests to see which forests we’re planting in and the impact it’s leaving on the world.
