Note: Photographs from the 2024 Arbor Day Celebration are available online at Flickr. 

Dover, Del. (April 30, 2024) – Surrounded by family members, teachers, legislators, and cabinet officials, a dozen school-aged children from across Delaware were honored during the Delaware Forest Service’s annual Arbor Day celebration held on April 26 at Abbott’s Mill Nature Center for their artistic abilities, depicting this year’s theme of “Trees are Terrific…For Outdoor Adventures!”

This year’s poster theme, “Trees are Terrific…For Outdoor Adventures!” highlights the importance of getting outside. When children and adults spend more time outdoors, they become healthier, less stressed, more connected to nature, and better stewards of the environment.

“After 20 years, it has been amazing to see the growth in our educational programming around Arbor Day and the involvement by students and schools throughout the State in our Arbor Day poster contest,” said Delaware State Forester Kyle Hoyd. “These two events have become centerpieces to the Delaware Forest Service’s educational programming, helping to increase awareness in youth and, in turn, their families, as they learn and share how trees and conservation help improve the quality of life we enjoy in our communities and are critical to maintaining a strong ecosystem.”

The Arbor Day poster contest is the largest annual school conservation-minded event held across Delaware. This year’s contest attracted entries from more than 70 schools, with over 5,300 students participating.

“I have pushed very hard to extend opportunities for learning outside of the classroom,” said Secretary of Education Mark Holodick. “I think we all appreciate the fact that when you learn things in a classroom, that knowledge becomes a skill out in the community, like today when you actually plant trees; that’s when you remember things the most.”

This year’s poster theme complements the Delaware Forest Service’s recent partnership with Delaware Libraries. The 2024 National Summer Reading theme is “Adventure Begins at Your Library.” Research has shown a correlation between literacy and developing a connection with nature. The Delaware Forest Service wanted to extend this call to adventure by incorporating all the great adventures that can happen in the Delaware outdoors.

Posters were judged on originality, theme use, neatness, and artistic expression. Each winner received a gift card, a tree-themed book, and a tree planting at their school. Twelve winners were selected from each county in four grade categories, and from those twelve winners, the judges selected the overall state winner.

Upon arrival, students had their photographs taken with their artwork. They were then recognized with a certificate and took group photographs with the State Forester Hoyd, Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse, Delaware Department of Education Secretary Mark Holodick, DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin, Nikko Brady, Director of Agricultural and Natural Resource Affairs for the Office of the Governor, and their respective legislator.

New Castle County
Kindergarten: Sayesha Withanage, Newark Charter
Grade 1 and 2: Sameera Kuricheti, North Star Elementary
Grade 3 and 4: Melody Wang, North Star Elementary*
Grade 5: Ishan Goswami, Olive B. Loss Elementary

Kent County
Kindergarten: Johnette Maiwo, McIlvaine Early Childhood Center
Grade 1 and 2: Addison Conklin, Nellie H. Stokes Elementary
Grade 3 and 4: Benaiah King, Veritas Academy
Grade 5: Maeva Colona, The Reserve School

Sussex County
Kindergarten: Rey James, St. John’s Preschool & Kindergarten
Grade 1 and 2: Kinley Nastakski, Lord Baltimore Elementary
Grade 3 and 4: Harper Shockley, Epworth Christian School
Grade 5: Madelyn Fischinskie, Rehoboth Elementary

*State Winner

Before heading out to grab some shovels and plant several native Eastern Redbud trees, Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse asked the youth when they thought the best time to plant a tree was. Hands shot up, and most agreed it must be Spring.

“If you are going plant a tree in the springtime, because of the heat and dry periods we have in the summer when you plant one in the Spring, you need to make sure you get outside and be able to water and take care of your tree, so it survives,” shared Secretary Scuse. “But the best time for planting a tree in Delaware is Fall because the trees are beginning to go dormant, and they are not as water-dependent or nutrient-dependent.”

Secretary Scuse encourages all Delawareans to make a plan before planting a tree by answering the following questions:

• Why do you want to plant a tree? Is it to help with climate change, enjoy nature, provide habitat for wildlife, improve our property, or replace a tree that has been harvested or may be diseased?

• When should you plant the tree? While you can plant a tree in Spring, it will take more work to keep that tree alive. The Fall allows the tree a lot more time to become established before it faces summertime stress the next year. The Fall rains help the roots get established; since they are dormant in winter, the trees do not need extra care.

• What type of tree should you plant? You have many sizes of deciduous trees, evergreens, and conifers to choose from. But most importantly, you do not want to plant invasive trees. These trees are non-native to Delaware and can displace native vegetation. The Delaware Forest Service makes it easy to pick a tree with their recommended tree list available at https://de.gov/delawaretrees.

• Where should you plant your tree? This needs to be part of your overall plan. If you are planting at home or as part of a neighborhood, you want to ensure you are not planting your tree under overhead utility lines. You also don’t want to plant too close to your house to ensure the tree has enough space to grow properly.

• How do you plant a tree? The Delaware Forest Service has a wealth of information on how to plant a tree at https://de.gov/delawaretrees. The staff of professional foresters with the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service also offer technical assistance to homeowners, communities, towns, non-profits, and even other state agencies to help select the best tree species, plant the “right tree in the right place,” and teach how to nurture and care for your trees.

Many activities can be enjoyed outdoors, and trees and forests can enhance the experience. At a Delaware State Forest, you can explore, camp, hike, fish, birdwatch, ride bikes, read a book, or just take time away from your busy lifestyle. Even if you don’t have access to a forest, trees can be found in many parts of your daily life. Trees exist in parks, schoolyards, and backyards and can be the central focus of many outdoor adventures!

To find information on one of Delaware’s three state forests, including maps, camping, and outdoor activities, visit https://de.gov/stateforests. To learn about the history of Arbor Day and view the artwork by the 12 winners of the 2024 Arbor Day Poster Contest, visit https://de.gov/arborday.

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DOVER, Del. (April 22, 2024) – The Delaware Forest Service hosted the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Col. John Haslet Chapter in Dover, and other volunteers to establish a memorial plot dedicated to former State Forester Walter F. Gabel, who served in this role from 1974 to 1991.

“We are excited about this DAR tree planting, not only because it is dedicated to Walt Gabel, but because the work by the Daughters of the American Revolution highlights the importance of the positive impacts of conservation efforts here in Delaware and throughout the United States,” said Delaware State Forester Kyle Hoyd. “This planting is a historical representation of penny pine plantings by DAR on the Headquarters Tract in the early 1900s. The same loblolly pine seedlings that we are planting today, only 85 years after those initial penny plantings, now cost a quarter each.”

One of DAR’s ‘service’ elements includes a conservation program devoted to improving the environment and educating the public on conservation issues. On June 3, 1939, members of the Delaware DAR (led by the Colonel John Haslet Chapter) planted the first DAR Forest of 10,800 “Penny Pines” in an area now the Redden State Forest’s Headquarters Tract. This National “Penny Pine” program initiative ($.01/tree) charged states across our Nation to establish at least an acre memorial forest by the 1941 National DAR 50th Anniversary. Donations of $5 secured 500 pine seedlings to be planted on that acre. The Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) was empowered to do the planting, although volunteers joined State Forest staff and CCC employees in Delaware to plant the site.

The Delaware Forest Service manages three state forests, including Redden, Blackbird, and Taber, covering more than 21,290 acres.

“I am thrilled Delaware Daughters helped make this event possible,” said Barbara Seningen, Regent-Delaware State Society, NSDAR. We recognize and support the planting of trees as they help reduce carbon dioxide and produce oxygen through photosynthesis, a process critical to mitigating climate-threatening forces.”

According to Dorothy Abbott, Conservation Chair of the DAR-Colonel John Haslet Chapter, “Walter F. Gabel dedicated most of his life to conserving and managing forest lands while pursuing his desire for American patriotism. Both his grandmothers and his three daughters are also DAR members.”

Establishing this memorial forest as a united effort celebrates Mr. Gabel’s passion for conservation and history. The memorial planting site on the Otis-Webb Tract was selected because the existing area is a prime location as an open field to convert back to trees, a process known as afforestation. Once the seedlings grow, this plot will help create forest diversity, including food plots for wildlife.

Former state foresters Bob Tjaden (1992-1994), E. Austin Short III (1995-2010) and Michael Valenti (2011-2022) were also invited for the tree planting.

The volunteers planted loblolly pine tree seedlings on an acre parcel within the 101-acre Otis-Webb Tract, south of Redden Road. This land was added to the Redden State Forest Complex in 2015. Funds for the purchase came from Delaware’s Open Space Program. Approximately one-half of the Otis-Webb Tract already supports a growing mixed hardwood/pine forest.

About the Daughters of the American Revolution
DAR was founded in 1890 as a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. Today, DAR consists of over 190,000 members in 3,000 chapters worldwide. DAR members can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution and are dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism, via commemorative events, service to veterans, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, and community service. For more information, visit www.dar.org.

About Delaware Forest Service
The mission of the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service (DFS) is to conserve, protect, and enhance Delaware forests and their resources for the public through education, management, demonstration, promotion, and providing technical services in a timely and efficient manner. DFS offers a wide range of services to help Delawareans manage and improve their forest resources. These services are divided into three categories: conservation, protection, and education. For more information, visit the website de.gov/forestry and connect with DFS on Facebook, Twitter/X, or Instagram.

DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin, left, works with a colleague to plant another tree in the Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative whose goal is to get 1 million trees planted in the First State by 2023 /DNREC photo

Seven New Projects Will Add 35,000 Trees to Take Total Planted Thus Far into the Initiative Beyond 200,000 by End of 2024

The Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative (TEDI) is making significant progress toward the goal of planting 1 million trees by 2030. The initiative has awarded funding to seven new projects, which will push the total count beyond 200,000 trees this year.

Through TEDI, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service works with conservation partners to enhance and support tree-planting projects throughout the state.

“Along with transitioning to clean energy sources, increased energy efficiency and clean transportation initiatives, TEDI is a key component of Delaware’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gases in our atmosphere,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “Trees improve air and water quality, preserve soil and support wildlife, and they play a critical role in helping to fight climate change.”

The seven newly funded projects, which were selected from among 15 applications, will receive a combined $238,500 for planting 35,000 trees.

The projects that received funding are located throughout the state of Delaware, from Frankford to Wilmington. They involve a range of organizations, including nonprofits, towns and schools. Project recipients and project locations include:

• Center for the Inland Bays in Georgetown and Lewes
• City of Newark along the Pomeroy Trail bike path
• Delaware Interfaith Power and Light for planting in Newark and Wilmington
• Delaware Technical Community College across its campuses
• Delaware Wild Lands in Middletown and Frankford
• St. Anne’s Episcopal School in Middletown
• Village of Ardencroft for planting in New Castle County

In fiscal year 2023, a total of 10,845 trees were planted on approximately 27 acres using TEDI funds. The 2023 TEDI annual report can be found on the DNREC website.

Additional funding opportunities, as well as a list of nurseries that carry native trees, tips on tree care, and a TEDI tree tracker can be found by visiting de.gov/tedi. Delawareans can help TEDI reach its goal by adding details about newly planted trees on their property into the tracker.

About DNREC
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control protects and manages the state’s natural resources, protects public health, provides outdoor recreational opportunities and educates Delawareans about the environment. The DNREC Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy uses science, education, policy development and incentives to address Delaware’s climate, energy and coastal challenges. For more information, visit the website and connect with @DelawareDNREC on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter) or LinkedIn.

Media Contacts: Jim Lee, JamesW.Lee@delaware.gov; Michael Globetti, michael.globetti@delaware.gov

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PHOTO: Lyla Jones of Brandywine Springs Elementary (at right) was the State winner for the 2023 poster contest.

Contact:
Ashley Melvin, Delaware Forest Service

(302) 698-4551  ashley.melvin@delaware.gov

DOVER, Del. (February 1, 2024) – The Delaware Forest Service is now seeking entries for its annual Arbor Day Poster Contest, open to all K-5 public, private, homeschool, after-school, and other organized youth groups. The annual Arbor Day Poster Contest is designed to increase an appreciation and awareness of the important role that trees play in our quality of life, communities, ecosystems, and our state. The Arbor Day Poster Contest is a fun way to celebrate Arbor Day with your students.

This year’s theme, “Trees are Terrific…for Outdoor Adventures!” is intended to highlight the importance of getting outside. Ample data exists to document that when children and adults spend more time outdoors, they become healthier, less stressed, more connected to nature, and better stewards of the environment. There are many activities that can be enjoyed outdoors, and trees and forests can enhance the experience. At a Delaware State Forest, for instance, you can explore, camp, hike, fish, birdwatch, ride bikes, read a book, or just take time away from your busy lifestyle. Even if you don’t have access to a forest, trees can be found in so many parts of our daily lives. Trees exist in parks, schoolyards, and backyards and can serve as the central focus of many outdoor adventures!

Delaware’s Official Arbor Day is Friday, April 26.

Posters will be judged on originality, use of theme, neatness, and artistic expression. Each winner receives a gift card, a tree-themed book, and a tree planting at their school. Twelve winners will be selected, one from each county in four grade categories: kindergarten, grades 1 and 2, grades 3 and 4, and grade 5. All participating classes will receive free loblolly pine seedlings delivered to their school.

The 12 winners will be invited to the annual Statewide Arbor Day Celebration hosted by Governor Carney. A tree-planting ceremony will also be scheduled at each winner’s school to celebrate Arbor Day. This year, the teacher of each of the 12 poster winners will receive a “Tree Trunk” of outdoor learning resources.

The deadline to register is March 9, with entries submitted by March 22.

Register to Participate and Receive Seedlings:

2024 Arbor Day Poster Contest – Google Form

Contest Guidelines and Teacher Resources:

Guidelines and Resources – Shared Google Drive

SEEDLING ANNOUNCEMENT: We have been notified by the tree nurseries in the tri-state area of a projected shortage of tree seedlings this year. Some species have already sold out due to the increase in reforestation projects happening in our area. Participation in the annual Arbor Day Poster Contest has also increased to the point that giving seedlings away may not remain sustainable (what a problem to have!). We will do our best to fill the orders until we run out of seedlings. If you do not think the majority of your students will be able to plant their seedlings, consider declining the offer to receive them.

This year the Delaware Forest Service is also celebrating Smokey Bear’s 80th Birthday. Smokey wants everyone to enjoy their Outdoor Adventures wherever they may take you. As families are encouraged to spend time outdoors, Smokey’s timeless message reinforces the need for civic responsibility while enjoying Delaware’s precious natural resources. You can share the story of Smokey Bear with your students by participating in the National Smokey Bear Reading Challenge at a local library near you!

Planting a tree is a fun activity we can enjoy today, knowing that the tree will continue to improve our lives over time. Trees planted throughout our communities not only provide beauty but help shade our streets and schoolyards and create habitat and food for wildlife. Trees planted today will benefit our communities tomorrow by improving air quality, serving as sound barriers, moderating air temperatures, reducing energy consumption, and filtering run-off into streams and rivers.

For more information, contact: ashley.melvin@delaware.gov

DOVER, Del. (May 11, 2023) – The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is partnering with the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service (DFS) to plant over 12,100 trees in support of the Forest Initiative Fund (FIF). FIF was created by the DFS to help address water quality, air quality, and overall life for all of Delawareans in the simplest way, through the planting of trees. This program is designed to enhance both rural and urban forests throughout Delaware, as well as ease to landowners and communities, while at the same time providing the key benefits we all need. Pictured here are just two examples of what programs the DFS provides.

The trees are being planted in the state right-of-way, along the POW-MIA Parkway, west of Charles Polk Road in Dover and along Route 1, south of Johnson Road in Lincoln. The trees will be a variety of sizes and native species, ranging from small seedlings to larger balled and burlapped trees. In addition, some flowering species to support pollinators for beautification will be included.

“These recent plantings are a great representation of state agencies working together to promote sustainable forestry efforts for future generations. The development of the Forest Initiative Fund (FIF) created an opportunity for DelDOT to partner with the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service to create new forests and reduce maintenance costs for the Agency. It has been a pleasure working with DelDOT to find innovative ways to implement tree plantings alongside of our roadways which will help with stormwater filtration, air quality, and aesthetics for our local residents and visitors,” said Delaware State Forester Kyle Hoyd.

“In addition to the many environmental benefits trees provide, these afforestation projects will also reduce approximately 20 acres of mowing for [DelDOT] and we are continuing to look at other areas across the State, where we can do additional plantings,” added Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski.

This partnership helps promote sustainable forestry practices by two State agencies in order to ensure forests for future Delawareans. With DelDOT as a State agency owning a large portion of Delaware land, this partnership will provide multiple future opportunities to collaborate as we strive to meet the goal of appropriate usage of open space. Even though the Forest Initiative Fund is in its first year, and the latest program since the Delaware Forest Service’s implementation in 1927, the FIF has resulted in the planting of 77,000 trees with private and public landowners. More information on the DFS forest stewardship program: https://de.gov/foreststewardship. More information on the DFS landowner assistance program: https://de.gov/forestlandowners.

About DelDOT
The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) strives to make every trip taken in Delaware safe, reliable and convenient for people and commerce. DelDOT also provides safe choices for travelers in Delaware to access roads, rails, buses, airways, waterways, bike trails, and walking paths. One goal for DelDOT is to minimize the environmental impact of the state’s transportation system. For more information, visit the website deldot.gov and connect with @DelawareDOT on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

About Delaware Forest Service
The mission of the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service (DFS) is to conserve, protect, and enhance Delaware forests and their resources for the public through education, management, demonstration, promotion, and providing technical services in a timely and efficient manner. DFS provides a wide range of services to help Delawareans manage and improve their forest resources. These services are divided into three categories: conservation, protection, and education. For more information, visit the website agriculture.delaware.gov/forest-service/ and connect with DFS on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.