City of Flint celebrates Arbor Day with tree planting in Broome Park, proclamation

FLINT, Mich. – In celebration of Arbor Day, volunteers from the Genesee Conservation District, the City of Flint, Consumers Energy, Carman-Ainsworth High School, Delta Kappa Gamma Mu Chapter and a homeschool youth group gathered to plant 500 seedling trees in Broome Park Friday. 

Flint received its 24th Tree City Awardee designation this year, thanks to a partnership with the Genesee Conservation District, which helps the City manage the roughly 26,000 trees in city parks, traffic islands, medians and right-of-ways.

Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley signed a proclamation recognizing April 26 as Arbor Day in Flint, highlighting the importance of trees in combating climate change by reducing erosion, moderating the temperature, cleaning the air, and producing life-giving oxygen.

“I want to thank all the volunteers who came together to celebrate trees in Broome Park today,” Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “The City of Flint is committed to park equity, and we are investing in parks and community centers citywide, so that all Flint residents have safe, beautiful places for recreation, just like Broome Park. Planting these seedlings is an investment in Flint’s future, assuring that future generations will enjoy the benefits of trees for our climate and our community.”

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees in urban areas have many community benefits, including:

• Trees help absorb the sounds of traffic in urban areas by 40%.
• Neighborhoods with trees are seven to nine degrees cooler than those without.
• Trees reduce energy costs up to 25% by shading buildings and protecting them from winter winds.
• Homes with trees have higher property values.
• Green space plays a major role in improving mental and physical health.
• Planting and maintaining trees absorbs carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, mitigating the effects of climate change.

“On behalf of the Board and Staff of Genesee Conservation District, I wish to express gratitude to all the volunteers that helped us plant 500 trees this morning in Broome Park,” Angela Warren, Executive Director of the Genesee Conservation District said. “Congratulations to the City of Flint for continuing its commitment to trees and for 24 years as a Tree City USA. Happy Arbor Day!”