PROCLAMATION
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BOWIE, MARYLAND
RECOGNIZING APRIL 12, 2008 AS ARBOR DAY

WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees; and

WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more that a million trees in Nebraska; and

WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and

WHEREAS, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen and provide habitat for wildlife; and

WHEREAS, trees in our City increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of our business areas, and beautify our community; and

WHEREAS, the City of Bowie has been designated as a Tree City USA and a PLANT (People Loving and Nurturing Trees) Community for the past fifteen years in recognition of their effort in enhancing urban forests.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the Council of the City of Bowie, Maryland does hereby declare April 12, 2008, as Arbor Day in the City of Bowie and urges all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodland.

INTRODUCED AND PASSED by the Council of the City of Bowie, Maryland at a Special Meeting on April 7, 2008 and

PRESENTED by the Council of the City of Bowie, Maryland on April 12, 2008.