The City of Morenci observed Arbor Day on April 25 with the planting of a Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus) at Wakefield Park. The tree was locally grown and planted by Matt Hoadley of R&W Nursery LLC, who donated mulch and planting services. Matt chose this species because of fond childhood memories of a prominent Kentucky Coffeetree that once stood in the playground. Now, a new generation can grow up with that same connection.
Another, more mature Kentucky Coffeetree still stands in the park. It can be found just southeast of the Little League t-ball field. To learn more about the species, visit the Arbor Day Foundation’s page on the Kentucky Coffeetree.
As part of the celebration, Christa from the Department of Public Works visited fifth grade classrooms at Morenci Area Schools to share tree facts and lead a creative art project. Students used broccoli heads as paintbrushes to create tree-themed artwork, a fun and hands-on way to mark the occasion.
Arbor Day is more than just a one-day event. It is part of an ongoing effort to care for and expand our tree canopy. You can still take part by planting a tree at home, caring for existing trees, or learning more about how trees improve our air, water, soil, and overall quality of life. Every tree planted helps make Morenci a stronger, healthier place to live.
Residents are also invited to join the MI Trees Program, part of Michigan’s pledge to support the global goal of planting one trillion trees by 2030. Led by the Department of Natural Resources, this initiative promotes tree planting, education, and stewardship across the state.
We have logged our Wakefield Park planting on the MI Tree Dashboard, and we encourage you to do the same. Whether planting a tree in your yard or with a group, your contribution helps grow a greener future. Plant it forward and be part of something lasting.