~ April 25, 2025 Arbor Day

This Arbor Day, the City of Morris celebrated the occasion by planting native trees that will benefit both the community and the environment for generations to come! With the help of the city’s Public Works team and trees grown locally on our farm at Spring Grove Nursery, two Red Oaks and one Swamp White Oak were planted around the pollinator garden along the I&M Canal. 

More than just a celebration of trees, this planting represents a commitment to biodiversity, sustainability, and community care. These native oaks were planted near an existing pollinator garden, where they will offer critical habitat and food sources for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Red Oaks and Swamp White Oaks are powerhouses in our Illinois ecosystems, supporting hundreds of species and helping to anchor healthy, resilient landscapes.

By choosing to plant native trees in thoughtfully designed spaces, the City of Morris is leading by example. This new Arbor Day tradition blends environmental stewardship with community pride, reminding us that when we plant trees, we’re also planting hope, habitat, and a legacy for the future. We’re proud to partner with Morris in growing a greener, stronger tomorrow one tree at a time! 

~ Maggie Thomas Harper