March 7, 2006

MECKLENBURG COUNTY ARBOR DAY FESTIVITIES SET FOR MARCH 17

CHARLOTTE, NC - Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation will celebrate Arbor Day Friday, March 17, 2006 with tree planting ceremonies in two locations. Native trees will be planted beginning at 10 a.m. in Freedom Park by the Freedom Park Pavilion and at Reedy Creek Nature Preserve by the Reedy Creek Nature Center. The event is free and the public is welcome to participate.

Trees can be a wonderful gift on Arbor Day, or any day of the year. Make a gift in honor of a person or an organization you care about through the Tree Dedication Program. Commemorate special occasions such as births, weddings, family reunions or a loved one. Trees will be planted from November 1 to March 1. Trees will be 2" in caliper and from 8' to 10' tall, depending on species and availability. There are many species available for planting.

COST: $250.00; includes the tree, a commemorative engraved brick (3 lines, 20 characters per line) mounted in concrete, and a one-year warranty on the tree. The gift of a tree represents a lasting tribute as it grows and flourishes through the years. The donation of a tree is a valuable contribution to the community -- they produce oxygen, reduce carbon monoxide, add beauty and shade to our parks, and provide wildlife habitation. For more information, go to www.parkandrec.com, and type "Tree Dedication Program" in Search.