MDC to host free Arbor Day celebration April 29 in St. Joseph
Games, activities, and free tree seedling giveaways are on tap

St. Joseph, MO - The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will celebrate Arbor Day and the value of trees with a free event from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 29, at MDC’s Northwest Regional Office in St. Joseph. This program for all ages is an opportunity to learn about trees and a chance to take home some native tree species to plant.

Each household attending will be allowed to take home two free tree seedlings, said Lonnie Messbarger, MDC forester. Some of the species offered will include aromatic sumac, redbud, river birch, bur oak, Norway spruce, and flowering dogwood. MDC staff and Missouri Master Naturalist volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and help visitors choose the right tree for the right place. They will provide planting and maintenance tips.

Smokey Bear will be present to offer children and adults advice on preventing wildfires. Smokey will also be available for photographs with visitors.  Visitors will also find games, information tables, and other activities. A trail hike through woods near the MDC office is planned. MDC’s Northwest Regional Office is at 701 James McCarthy Drive on the campus of Missouri Western State University.

This Arbor Day event celebrates the beauty and value of trees as spring planting season arrives. Registration is not required. COVID-19 safety precautions will be observed. For more information, call 816-271-3100.