The history of this day began with early Nebraska pioneers who saw that trees were needed as windbreaks to keep the soil intact, for fuel and building materials, and for shade. As a result Arbor Day was founded in 1872 when the secretary of the Nebraska Territory, J. Sterling Morton, declared the day to be a legal holiday. One thousand trees were planted on the treeless plains on April 22 of that year. During the 1870's other states passed legislation to observe Arbor Day and the tradition began in schools nationwide in 1882. This day is now observed nationwide in the U.S. and in several other countries.
Trees are of great value to communities and nations.
Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20 percent. One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. This is enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people. Trees can be a stimulus to economic development, attracting new business and tourism. Commercial retail areas are more attractive to shoppers, apartments rent more quickly, tenants stay longer, and space in a wooded setting is more valuable to sell or rent.