WILLIAMS, CA (MPG) – The City of Williams marked Arbor Day with a vibrant tree planting event on April 25, to celebrate the importance of trees in enhancing the community’s environment and quality of life.
Public Works Director Colt Esenwein and staff planted about 30 trees in Valley Vista Park and provided residents with trees to plant where they would be visible to the public.
“This is our third year doing this,” Esenwein said.
Last month, the Williams City Council proclaimed April 25 as Arbor Day in the City of Williams.
Williams Mayor Maria Belmontes-Leyva signed the proclamation that states “Arbor Day, the nation’s tree planning holiday, was first celebrated in 1872. Arbor Day is a day for people to come together in recognition of trees.”
While there was less community participation in the planting activity this year, the city did have a few enthusiastic volunteers.
“I like shade,” said 6-year-old Aiden Alvernaz, who planted a tree along side his sister Addie, 9.
Each tree was carefully selected to thrive in the local climate and soil, ensuring a lasting impact on the landscape, Esenwein said.
In 2024, the city council approved funding for 60 young trees in 5-gallon containers. This year, the city gave away similar sized trees in addition to planting slightly older trees in Valley Vista Park, including Autumn Maple, known for its vibrant red colors in the fall, and the Thuja Green Giant, a hardy and fast-growing evergreen.
Esenwein said the city also plants a tree in the city for each tree that is removed due to age or disease.
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, founded in 1972, trees play a vital role in ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. Each year, the foundation works on various initiatives that aim to enhance the understanding of the importance of trees in creating a healthier planet.
With successful tree plantings each year, the City of Williams looks forward to future initiatives that support environmental health and community engagement. Together, they are nurturing a greener, more sustainable future for all residents, officials said.
“National Arbor Day is always celebrated on the last Friday in April,” Esenwien said. “This year it fell in the middle of spring break.”