West Virginia State University (WVSU) will host an Arbor Day themed tree planting on campus Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Nearly 50 trees will be planted along the road leading to the former West Virginia Rehabilitation Center, which was acquired by the University in 2013.
“While traditionally held in the spring, Arbor Day can actually be celebrated any time of year, and the fall season is a great time to plant trees on your property,” WVSU Extension Agent Brad Cochran said.
The event celebrates WVSU receiving its second consecutive designation as a Tree Campus USA from the National Arbor Day Foundation. To date, WVSU remains the only institution of higher education in West Virginia to hold such a designation.
“West Virginia State has taken the initiative to ensure that our campus trees remain healthy and beautiful for years to come by using proper management techniques,” Cochran said. “Tree Campus USA is a designation that we continue to be very proud of.”
To qualify, campuses must meet a series of criteria, including development and maintenance of a Campus Tree Board and Campus Tree Care Plan, having dedicated expenditures toward tree maintenance, hosting an annual Arbor Day observance, and holding an annual Service Learning Project on campus.
WVSU is partnering with CSX, the National Arbor Day Foundation and the West Virginia Division of Forestry on the tree-planting event. A presentation will take place at approximately 10 a.m., during which WVSU President Brian O. Hemphill and representatives from partnering agencies will make remarks.