SIDNEY - The public is invited to Sidney’s annual Arbor Day Celebration on Friday, April 24 at the pavilion in Sidney’s Keith Clark Park on River Street. The 10 a.m. program will begin with choral selections from Sidney’s Elementary Choir. A highlight of the morning will be the planting of the Arbor Day Tree honoring Jim Doig for his many contributions to the community of Sidney and its residents. Doig has selected an ‘American Dream’ Oak which will be planted in the park, west of the pavilion. Since 1994, Arbor Day Trees have been planted in dedication and thank you to individuals and groups who have had active roles in the village. Each of the Arbor Day trees is indicated by a plaque that provides information about the tree and its dedication.
The morning events will include fifth grade students displaying their artwork depicting the theme of “Trees Are Terrific In All Shapes and Sizes”.
Arbor Day is an annual event planned by Sidney’s Shade Tree Commission. Chairperson Lorrie Roach will introduce the commission members: David Honsaker, Erik Schwarz, Ruth Carr, Pam Gilbert, Jack Salo and Dennis Porter. The scope of their mission will be explained as they work toward the requirements to designate Sidney as a Tree City USA for the 30th year. The commission provides guidance for the Sidney Department of Public Works in the selection and planting of trees in parks and other public spaces in the village. Residents may request a free tree planted on the utility strip in front of their home by contacting the Shade Tree Commission via Sidney village office. Trees are planted annually with a selection of 20 trees in the process of being planted by the DPW this spring within Keith Clark Park and at residential locations.
Skyler Girard, the forester representing the Sidney area location will be in attendance at the morning program. Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced a statewide initiative to have 25 million trees planted across New York by 2033. This is a needed response to climate change and habitat loss. At the close of the Sidney’s Arbor Day event, free 80 saplings will be distributed. The saplings are provided each year by the Delaware County Soil and Water Conservation District. The saplings act a parting gift to encourage residents to continue planting for the future.
