Fairfax County official marks Arbor Day, highlights 55% tree canopy and student planting

An agency official for Fairfax County marked Arbor Day at a local elementary school and urged residents to plant more trees to help the county reach long-term canopy goals. The official said the county has a 55% tree canopy and noted Fairfax County has been recognized as a Tree City USA honoree for 43 consecutive years.

The official said the county was planting a river birch at the school because it grows quickly, can reach about 80 feet and is suited to areas with sidewalks and nearby buildings because it does not shed excessive debris. "We are proud of our 55% tree canopy," the official said, adding that such plantings help establish shade and habitat for neighborhoods and schools.

Speakers at the event encouraged residents to plant trees in their yards and described the county's tree ordinance as a tool used in development review to protect more trees than a developer might otherwise conserve. The official also described another specimen on site, a black cherry, as valuable for habitat and shade, and emphasized the need to consider the mature size of trees and site conditions such as soil moisture when choosing species.

For residents seeking guidance, the official directed listeners to resources on the Fairfax County website and to local master naturalist and master gardener programs for advice on selecting and caring for trees. The event was framed as an educational moment for students, with plantings serving as a time capsule that students can remember.

The event concluded with a reminder to care for newly planted trees by providing water and protection so they can mature and deliver long-term benefits to the community.