North Las Vegas Celebrates Arbor Day with Tree Planting

North Las Vegas to Celebrate Arbor Day with Educational Initiatives and Tree Planting Goals

The City of North Las Vegas has been designated Tree City USA for 2025, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship. The Arbor Day celebrations are set to take place on Wednesday, October 22, starting at 10 a.m. at Liberty Park near City Hall.

During the event, nearly 75 local elementary school students will engage in various activities organized by Get Outdoors Nevada and Nevada Plants. These educational activities will shine a light on themes such as native habitat awareness, water education, and the “Leave No Tracks” principle, aiming to foster environmental responsibility among young participants.

North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown emphasized the importance of planting trees and shrubs in addressing heat tolerance issues prevalent in Southern Nevada. The city is currently pursuing an ambitious tree-planting and giveaway program to enhance its greenery and increase the urban tree canopy.

Tree Planting Initiatives

As part of the city’s ongoing greening efforts, more than 600 trees and shrubs have already been planted in North Las Vegas in 2025 alone. The city has committed to an extensive plan to plant a total of 5,000 trees and shrubs by the year 2032. This initiative is aimed at combating urban heat, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the community.

Community Engagement and Education

In addition to the tree planting, the Arbor Day celebrations are designed to connect students with nature through hands-on learning experiences. Shelly Kopinski, director of programs for Get Outdoors Nevada, noted the significance of such initiatives in fostering a love for the environment among children. Furthermore, Lisa Ortega, executive director of Nevada Plants, highlighted the importance of community involvement in the Arbor Day celebrations and encouraged residents to participate in future tree planting efforts.

Background on Tree City USA Designation

The Tree City USA program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities that meet specific standards of urban forestry management. These standards include having a tree board or department, implementing a community tree care program, and spending a minimum amount on urban forestry annually. Achieving this designation signifies North Las Vegas’s commitment to maintaining and improving its urban forest for current and future generations.

This year’s Arbor Day event is not only a celebration but also serves as a vital educational platform for the youth and the community. By focusing on environmental education, North Las Vegas hopes to inspire a new generation to take an active interest in environmental preservation and sustainability.