Tree Committee members and guests plant the 2019 Lynnfield Arbor Day Tree!

On Saturday, May 4, members of the Tree Committee and guests planted the 2019 Lynnfield Arbor Day Tree - a Scarlett Oak - near the creek by Town Hall. Arbor Day recognizes the importance that trees play in our lives by planting a tree. The first modern celebration was held in Spain in 1805 when a three-day long festival to appreciate Nature, and specifically trees were honored for their environmental and human health benefits. This oak joins a collection of native trees by the Lynnfield Common that includes Sugar Maple, Tupelo, Linden, Tulip Tree and American Elm.

Native trees are the catalyst to a healthy ecosystem by contributing to pollination; providing food for creatures big and small; as a major contributor to clean water and air; plus they are easier to grow because they belong here. Oak trees are of particular importance because oak are one of the best for carbon sequestration, and support over 500 species of caterpillars, which then feed birds and the food web that supports all of us. Biodiversity starts with our native trees and oak are the “quintessential wildlife plants” according to a leading entomologist. This new Scarlett Oak will not only provide us with beautiful fall foliage it will contribute in numerous ways to our long term well-being.