Friday, April 25, 2025
In a city council meeting of the City of Gatesville, held Tuesday, April 8, council members signed a proclamation with Tree City USA, an Arbor Day Foundation program, in honor of Arbor Day, which is observed April 25.
Arbor Day is celebrated throughout the nation and promotes the planting of trees.
According to the proclamation, trees can be the solution to combat climate change by reducing the erosion of topsoil by wind and water, cutting heating and cooling costs, moderating the temperature, cleaning the air, producing life-giving oxygen, and providing habitat for wildlife.
Trees are also a renewable resource, providing paper, wood for homes, fuel for fires, and countless other wood products.
The proclamation brings the city one step closer to obtaining grants from Tree City USA, which will help with the planting of trees and any additional maintenance, care, or watering needs of the trees.
Parks and Recreation Director Seth Phillips said that the city plans to apply for a tree grant in the future.
“We will be in the top number to get grants, so as long as you are showing that you are trying to do the right things for your community, you are going to get the grant,” Phillips said.
According to the proclamation, trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community.
