Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring April 10, 2026, as Arbor Day in Rockville, Maryland
end
Department
Recreation & Parks
Recommendation
Staff recommends Mayor and Council read, approve, and present the proclamation to Paula Perez, City Forester.
Discussion
Arbor Day is a secular day of observance in which individuals and groups are encouraged to plant trees. Today, many countries observe such a holiday. Though usually observed in the spring, the date varies, depending on the climate and the suitable planting season.
National Arbor Day is always celebrated on the last Friday in April, but many states and cities observe Arbor Day on different dates throughout the year based on best tree planting times in their area.
The City observes Arbor Day every year with a tree-planting ceremony and proclamation, in keeping with the standards of the Tree City USA program. Rockville has been named a Tree City USA for 37 consecutive years in recognition of its commitment to tree maintenance and planting efforts. Rockville also received a 2025 PLANT Award (People Loving and Nurturing Trees), Green Level, from the Maryland Urban and Community Forest Committee. Green is the highest level of the PLANT award. Rockville has received this award for more than 18 consecutive years.
The City will plant a tree on April 10th at 9:00 am at Millennium Garden Park, 634 Great Falls Road, Rockville, Maryland 20850, with 6th Grade students from Julius West Middle School. In recognition of America250, Urban Forestry and Special Events staff will host the event. There will be a White Oak tree planted, which is designated as America’s National tree and Maryland State tree, along with a plaque to commemorate the event.
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council observe Arbor Day each year with a Proclamation.
Public Notification and Engagement
The City will plant a tree on April 10th at 9:00 am at Millennium Garden Park, 634 Great Falls Road, Rockville, Maryland 20850, with 6th Grade students from Julius West Middle School. In recognition of America250, Urban Forestry and Special Events staff will host the event. There will be a White Oak tree planted, which is designated as America’s National tree and Maryland State tree, along with a plaque to commemorate the event.
A video of the tree planting will be made available on Facebook for the viewing pleasure of everyone.