GREENSBORO, NC -- (March 10, 2011) – Greensboro Mayor William H. Knight has proclaimed Friday, March 18, as Arbor Day and the City is celebrating with a ceremonial tree planting at 3 pm, at Blandwood Mansion, 447 W. Washington St.

According to Knight, the event provides an opportunity for true community forestry. “Through Arbor Day, everyone can play a role in caring for our trees and woodlands,” says Knight. “This event not only supports our Community Forestry Program, but we hope it also brightens the hearts of Greensboro residents and promotes the well-being of present and future generations.”

Each year, Arbor Day celebrations encourage Greensboro residents to protect existing trees and plant new ones. For the past 20 consecutive years, Greensboro has been recognized as a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

This year's program sponsors include Greensboro Beautiful, Inc., Preservation Greensboro, Inc., and the City of Greensboro’s Urban Forestry Program.

For additional information contact Mike Cusimano at 336-373-2150 or visit the Planning and Community Development Department online at www.greensboro-nc.gov/Departments/Planning/forestry/.

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The City works with the community to improve the quality of life for residents through inclusion, diversity, and trust. As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a professional staff of 2,800 employees who maintain the values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect. The City is governed by a council-manager form of government with a mayor and eight council members. For more information on the City, visit www.greensboro-nc.gov or call 336-373-CITY (2489).