The McKean County Conservation District celebrated Arbor Day by sponsoring the “My Growing Tree” program with the assistance of Eric Monger, Service Forester and Stan Hess, volunteer from DCNR Bureau of Forestry. First and second grade students throughout McKean County received an Eastern Hemlock seedling and a poster that included charts to enable the students to monitor their own height as well as the growth of their tree.

McKean County Conservation District staff members and DCNR staff spoke about the importance of Arbor Day, the benefits of trees, and the sustainable use of forests. Students learned that the Eastern Hemlock is Pennsylvania’s state tree, and discussed the parts of the tree. They also discussed how to plant a tree properly so they can help their family take care of their new tree.

Special guests Smokey Bear and McKean County Commissioner Cliff Lane helped kids recite a pledge to conserve our natural resources and to work for a cleaner and healthier McKean County. A donation from Seneca Resources helped provide this program to over 500 students.

Arbor Day is always the last Friday in April. For more information on Arbor Day or tree planting, visit www.arborday.org