PARSIPPANY — BSA Girl Troop 72 Parsippany, BSA Boy Troop 72 Parsippany, Cub Scout Pack 142 Parsippany, and Cub Scout Pack 215 Parsippany joined together with the township’s Parks and Forestry Department to continue a longstanding tradition.
In 1972, then-Parks Director Joseph Jannarone Sr. introduced an idea: presenting every third grader in town with his or her very own tree seedling. Over the passing decades, many trees in this town—a national Tree City USA since 1975—have grown from the plantings made by local school children.
For 2019, the tradition continued as the scouts gathered at the Parks and Forestry building on Knoll Road to prepare pine tree seedlings, which were distributed to third graders Friday, Arbor Day. The scouts have assisted in this endeavor for several years, and in that time have committed several hundred hours to this project alone.
Arbor Day (from the Latin arbor, meaning tree) is a holiday in which individuals and groups are encouraged to plant and care for trees. Today, many countries observe this holiday. Though usually observed in the spring, the date varies, depending on climate and suitable planting season.
Residents can pick up tree seedlings at Town Hall From 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through next Friday, May 3. Seedlings, are available on a first come, first served basis, and also come with instructions on how to store, care for, and plant them. Residents should plant the seedlings within two days after pick-up in order to prevent the roots from drying out. Please note only take two (2) seedlings per household.
Parsippany will celebrate Arbor Day on Monday, April 29 at 10:00 a.m. Come Raise the Tree City Flag at Town Hall.
