STATESBORO — Celebrate Arbor Day 2008 by planting a tree. Community tree planting activities and free seedling give-aways will be held on Feb. 16 from 10 a.m.-noon in downtown Statesboro, public parking on Hill Street.

Arbor Day is a nationally celebrated day to encourage tree planting and care. Founded in the 1800s by J. Sterling Morton, Arbor Day’s recognition has grown to not only include the United States, but is observed in many countries. Trees are vital to our environmental health, economic development, community well-being and aesthetic beauty.

The Statesboro Arbor Day Celebration is sponsored by Keep Bulloch Beautiful, Bulloch Council of Garden Clubs, Georgia Southern Botanical Garden and First Southern Bank.

“It’s always a pleasure to be a part of such a good cause,” said Stephanie Tames, public relations coordinator for Georgia Southern Botanical Garden. “Each year brings a new chance to not only educate the members of the surrounding communities, but to join them together for a great purpose.”

A variety of tree seedlings will be available Saturday while supplies last. The community tree planting allows nonprofit groups or organizations such as churches, schools and neighborhoods to apply to receive a larger tree. Planting locations must be in public view and located within 100 feet of a public road. The community tree planting helps increase our area’s tree canopy and beautify the community.

Groups of volunteers will be organized for the community tree planting project and provided each with tools and professional assistance. To register or for more information, log on to www.keepbullochbeautiful.org.

City and county officials will be present at noon for the annual Arbor Day Proclamation.