Ward Acres Park celebrates Arbor Day with first graders and community leaders

New Rochelle celebrated Arbor Day with a vibrant tree planting ceremony on April 25, 2025, emphasizing community engagement and environmental stewardship. Parks Commissioner Vinny DeMarco led the event, highlighting the importance of trees and their benefits to the environment. He shared the history of Arbor Day, recounting how it began in 1872 when Sterling Morton proposed a day dedicated to tree planting in Nebraska, which has since grown into a global celebration.

The ceremony featured participation from various local organizations, including the Ward Acres Conservancy Group and ArborPro, the city's tree consultants. Councilwoman Sarah Kaye also addressed attendees, emphasizing the vital role trees play in improving air quality, reducing heat, and providing habitats for wildlife. She encouraged the community to appreciate and support tree planting efforts throughout New Rochelle.

This year, the focus was on planting a single tree at Ward Elementary School, involving first-grade students in the process. The event aimed to instill a sense of responsibility and connection to nature among the youth, fostering a culture of environmental awareness in the community.

As New Rochelle continues to prioritize green initiatives, the Arbor Day ceremony serves as a reminder of the collective effort needed to enhance the city's natural landscape and promote sustainability for future generations.