The City of Tallahassee and Leon County Government invite residents to celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees in Governor's Park, 700 N. Blair Stone Road, on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 9 a.m. This fun and educational volunteer opportunity will help enhance the park's natural habitat and provide residents with information about native tree species and planting techniques.

Plantings will be done throughout the park and include a diverse mix of over 250 trees, including a variety of native hardwood species.

While volunteers give back to the community, the City and County want to ensure volunteers gain something, too. Staff foresters and arborists will be available to explain the characteristics of each species being planted and to assist with proper planting technique. Additionally, representatives from the Apalachee Chapter of the Audubon Society and Florida Division of Forestry (DOF) will be on hand to provide insight into bird habitat, forest management and tree care. Attendees can use this new knowledge to help choose the right tree for the right location in their own yards, serving to strengthen the overall quality of the urban canopy. As part of this effort, DOF will do a tree giveaway on site (limited supplies available).

Volunteers are asked to dress for the weather and bring gloves, shovels, drinking water and friends. The event will take place rain or shine.

The City of Tallahassee and Leon County Government have a long history of celebrating Arbor Day. Last year, hundreds of trees and shrubs were planted by friends and families at Broadmoor Pond Park.

For more information, contact the City's Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Affairs department at 850-891-3866.