The city of Salem celebrated Arbor Day Friday by planting a new tree outside the fitness zone at Waterworth Memorial Park, and an official proclamation by Mayor Cyndi Baronzzi Dickey which was delivered by City Service Safety Director Joe Cappuzzello. Pictured from left are Cappuzzello, Parks Commission President John Panezott, Parks Director Jacob Logan, Parks Foreman Jim Grimm and Recreation Supervisor Kelli Pastore. (Photo by Morgan Ahart)
SALEM — The Salem Parks Department celebrated Arbor Day Friday in traditional style, planting the newest tree at Waterworth Memorial Park.
First celebrated in the United States in Nebraska City, Nebraska, in 1872, Arbor Day is celebrated annually by planting trees, and celebrates the importance of conservation and forestry. Salem is certainly no stranger to celebrating Arbor Day, having been a member of the Tree City USA Program for 41 years.
This year’s celebration saw the planting of a little leaf linden tree, also known commonly as a basswood tree, and by its scientific name Tilia cordata, and with a proclamation by Mayor Cyndi Baronzzi Dickey officially proclaiming April 26, 2024 as Arbor Day in the city of Salem, which also celebrated the history and importance of Arbor Day, and of the value of well-maintained trees.
Parks Director Jacob Logan explained that the name basswood comes from the characteristic shape formed when the tree’s fruit attaches to the leaves, which resembles a spinner bait. Logan said that the little leaf lindens were a medium growth species, and that the new tree, planted just outside the fitness zone, will be mostly mature in about 15 years. Logan said that at full size the tree could reach a maximum height of 50 feet tall, with a canopy roughly 20 feet wide.
Logan explained that little leaf linden, which was donated to the department by Parks Garden Center, was selected for its hardiness being resistant to many common pests and diseases. Logan said that they are also popular shade trees and have strong fall aesthetics.
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