Every year between March 7-14, we celebrate trees and the many ways they grow thriving communities. Keep reading to learn more about why we’re celebrating our beloved urban forest all week long. 

California Arbor Week

Unlike most Americans who observe Arbor Day on the last Friday in April, Californians celebrate a little bit early. Here in the Golden State, we celebrate California Arbor Day on March 7^th in honor of horticulturalist Luther Burbank’s birthday. In 2011, the CA State Assembly and Senate officially made California Arbor Day a week-long celebration to be observed March 7-14 every year—also known as California Arbor Week. 

California Arbor Day is particularly special to the Tree Foundation because on March 7, 1982, the Sacramento Tree Foundation was founded, and we have been nurturing and growing our urban forest ever since. That makes this year our 42^nd birthday. 

For over 40 years, the Tree Foundation has stewarded the urban forest from seed to slab—from harvesting acorns in the fall, to planting seedlings, caring for our mature tree canopy, and salvaging fallen trees as urban lumber. With the help of our dedicated volunteers and supporters, we’ve planted over 1.5 million trees throughout the region. 

How you can celebrate

Plant a tree – Trees make our communities more livable and lovable. If you’ve been thinking about adding some shade trees to your yard, you may be in luck. Thanks to our partnership with SMUD, all SMUD customers can get a free landscape assessment and up to 10 free shade trees delivered to your home or business. Our staff will work with you to determine the right trees for your space and deliver them to your property with stakes, ties, and helpful information on how to plant and care for the trees. Visit sactree.org/freetrees to learn more about the program.   

Volunteer with us – We’d love to see you at our next event! We have volunteer opportunities for you to get involved and help grow thriving green neighborhoods. From tree plantings and tree care events to community science, there are year-round opportunities to get involved. Check out our events calendar to find an event near you.  

Make a gift – In the spirit of Arbor Week and the Tree Foundation’s 42^nd birthday, please help us grow our urban forest for our community to learn, play and explore under the canopy of trees! Your support provides access to green space for everyone in our community to thrive. You can make a gift at sactree.org/donate.