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River Grove crows over Arbor Day
Updated: May 28, 2012 8:20AM
“Our town is called River Grove for a reason,” said Director of Public Works Brent Leder. “We’re not called Prairie Grove!”
River Grove, most known for its lush trees and greens, will be celebrating Arbor Day on April 27 at the LRC (Leyden Handicap Center). This will be River Grove’s 18th year with the Tree City USA and Arbor Day Celebration.
“Arbor Day is important to River Grove because we are a community that loves our trees,” Leder said. “Trees add authentic beauty to our neighborhood.” Trees also add value to the homes within the area, along with joy and spiritual value, he said.
The Tree City USA is an award granted to communities who show great care to their trees. In order to receive this honor, River Grove had to show an ordinance to prove their dedication to the forest. They also needed to have an Arbor Day program every year and a tree board which is the esthetic committee. River Grove also must spend $20,000 each year on upkeep of the woods.
“Being a part of the Tree City USA is a huge honor,” said Village Trustee Lynn Bjorvik. “We are lucky to have this event!”
To honor the Tree City USA award, this year’s Arbor Day will consist of sixth-grade students planting trees outside of the LRC. The village of River Grove will be awarding students who have created the best bird house. They also will be honoring Sue Flemm, who has retired from the LRC last year.
“Arbor Day is always on the last Friday of April in Illinois,” Leder said. “Every state has a designated Arbor Day. For our town, we plan a different event every year.”
“Brent along with the Village of Public Works does a wonderful job preserving our trees,” said Bjorvik. “They really do try to maintain a wonderful community for us.”
Going green recently has been an important trend, which River Grove hopes to instill in its citizens. Trees create clean air, help the habitat, and create paper and wood. The village encourages everyone within the community to plant a tree.
Unfortunately, River Grove has had to cut down 13 trees due to emerald ash borer insect which has devastated ash trees throughout Illinois. Nothing has been found to get rid of the bug, which is why promoting Arbor Day is essential.
“We work hard at keeping a beautiful community,” Leder said.
