October 14, 2019

Timbers Nature Preserve site of Arbor Day plantings

Ninth annual celebration to add shade trees 

MURPHY (October 14, 2019) The annual celebration of Arbor Day in Murphy has become a tradition for many families and organizations, as the yearly tree-planting event has grown larger each year.

This year, the ninth annual Arbor Day event will move to the Timbers Nature Preserve, 324 Pine Top Drive, on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to noon, according to Special Events Coordinator Kayla McFarland.  

Volunteers are still needed and may register at https://secure.rec1.com/TX/murphy-tx/catalog.  The signup site requires volunteers to set up a free account, then click on Volunteer Opportunities.  All ages of volunteers are welcome, though volunteers younger than 14 years of age should be accompanied by an adult.  Background checks will be conducted for volunteers 18 years of age and older.  Deadline to sign up is Oct. 30. 

Check-in will be handled at the Timbers Nature Preserve pavilion starting at 9:45 a.m.  Checking in is required to ensure every participant is accounted for.  As usual, the City of Murphy provides a limited number of small and medium sized shovels and spades, but officials encourage participants to bring their own, if possible.  City parks staff will again serve as advisors and supervisors.

In addition to shovels, work gloves and sturdy work clothing are encouraged.  Closed-toed shoes or sneakers are required for anyone planting trees or assisting in any way.

A limited number of commemorative T-shirts are available on a first come, first serve basis.  Following the end of the event, lunch will be served by In-N-Out Burger.  A vegetarian option will be available.

“Not only do trees add natural beauty, but they also serve as filters for urban air pollution and provide a steady supply of life-giving oxygen to the atmosphere,” said McFarland.

Arbor Day tree-plantings have been celebrated in various Murphy locations over the last several years, planting long-lasting shade trees within Central Park, and the adjoining sidewalks, as well as Waters Edge Park, and other locations.   

“We’re looking forward to working, once again, with the Murphy community to make this event as successful as all the previous ones,” said McFarland.  “Our thanks go to the Murphy Community Development Corporation, and the Murphy City Council for helping make this event possible.”

More information can be obtained from the Recreation Department at 972-468-4444.