Rochester Reporter

(Friday, April 26, 2024) – Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and City Department of Environmental Services Commissioner Richard Perrin II gathered at the Trenton and Pamela Jackson Recreation Center to mark the 41st Anniversary of the City and County Annual Arbor Day Celebration. They planted a Sugar Maple and an Eastern Red Bud tree and read a joint proclamation to commemorate the event.

“These trees are a testament to our commitment to the environment, the health of our city, and a gift to future generations who will sit beneath their shade,” expressed Mayor Malik D. Evans. “What we plant today represents a promise we make to dedicate ourselves to celebrating and protecting our urban forest.”

Reflecting on the significance of tree planting, County Executive Adam Bello remarked, “It’s said that those that plant trees love others beside themselves. Trees are essential and elevate our quality of life here in Monroe County. Every year, we plant hundreds of trees in our parks and join with the City of Rochester to celebrate Arbor Day and to recommit to our goal of a healthy environment for generations to come.”

The event, which was a joint effort between the City of Rochester and Monroe County, was made possible through the collaboration of various organizations including the City of Rochester, Monroe County Parks, Plant GFLX Horticultural Associates, Meadowview Tree Farm and Nursery, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County, and the New York State Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture.

In line with their commitment to environmental initiatives, the City of Rochester initiated the Tree Expansion and Beautification Initiative two years ago to address the city’s tree canopy disparity. With 2,000 trees already planted and 4,000 more scheduled for planting by 2025, the goal is to reach 70,000 trees. Additionally, the City’s Forestry Division has finalized a draft of the Urban Forest Master Plan Update and is seeking input from residents through various events.

The City of Rochester encourages residents to engage with the Urban Forest Master Plan Update by visiting www.cityofrochester.gov/forestry-services.

The City of Rochester, under the leadership of Mayor Malik D. Evans, continues its commitment to creating a safe, equitable, and prosperous Rochester by fostering a vibrant community that empowers growth for all who live, work, or play in the city.

©City of Rochester