Arbor Week

WHEREAS, the economic and aesthetic welfare of the people of Alabama is largely dependent on the trees and forest lands of the state; and

WHEREAS, everyone in Alabama benefits either directly or indirectly from trees and forest lands; and

WHEREAS, trees provide jobs, products, habitat for wildlife, and recreational opportunities; and

WHEREAS, trees provide oxygen, help purify the air, play an important role in the water cycle, help neutralize waste water, and stabilize the soil; and

WHEREAS, trees are an invaluable physical and psychological addition to Alabama, provide shade, cool the air, and reduce noise levels and glare; and

WHEREAS, trees are an economic asset to Alabama, attract tourism, increase property values, and enhance shopping patterns; and

WHEREAS, the management of trees increases the benefit to our communities through planning, planting, maintenance, timely removal and replacement; and

WHEREAS, well-maintained trees benefit present and future generations:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim February 22 through 28, 2015, as

Arbor Week

in the state of Alabama, and encourage each citizen to participate in tree planting activities during this week.