Get dirty and dig while learning the proper tree planting techniques at the annual Arbor Day event in downtown Petersham.
The Petersham Forest and Shade Tree Committee is hosting the event this Sunday, April 29 from 9 a.m. to noon.
Petersham Tree Warden Melissa LeVangie said the event aims to teach the community about the importance of trees in Petersham and tree health all over.
“It’s a day to make a punctuation point to say we are celebrating trees in our town,” she said.
The event starts with a reading of a proclamation in honor of Arbor Day and its’ founder Julius Sterling Morton.
Usually during the event LeVangie said volunteers plant around one or two trees, but this year they hope to plant 17 thanks to an Urban & Community Forestry Challenge Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation.
A family-friendly scavenger hunt, will take place during the day as well. Participants can quiz themselves on various tree-related questions such as type. The highest score receives a prize donated by Shelter Tree Inc.
There will also be tree-themed snacks and refreshments for volunteers. All are welcome to stop by throughout the day.