Among the settlers moving into the Nebraska Territory in 1854 was J. Sterling Morton of Detroit. As editor of Nebraska's first newspaper, and later as a government official, Morton advocated tree planting by individuals and civic organizations. The first Arbor Day was observed in 1872, and prizes were offered to counties and individuals for properly planting the most trees on that day. It was estimated that more than a million trees were planted in Nebraska on the first Arbor Day. During the 1870s, other states passed legislation to observe Arbor Day, and the concept has since spread to many countries around the world.
Trees provide wildlife habitat for birds, mammals and reptiles.
The hairy leaf surfaces of trees trap and filter out ash, dust and pollen particles carried in the air. Trees lessen the impact of raindrops on the soil surface and help keep sediment from washing into rivers and streams. Trees beautify urban and community areas, such as parks, streets and school yards. The hair-like root fibers of trees help filter groundwater, trapping nutrients and pollutants that could contaminate it.