MEDIA ADVISORY: JBER to celebrate Arbor Day May 19

  • Published
  • JBER Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson will host an Arbor Day event at the JBER Library, May 19, 2025, at 10 a.m.

In 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees. Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world, acknowledging the value of trees to reduce soil erosion, moderate soil and water temperature, clean pollutants from air, soil, and water, produce oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife.

This year marks JBER’s 30th year as a “Tree City, USA.” In recognition of this milestone, JBER will kick off its goal to plant 30 trees across the installation throughout the year, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of the JBER community.

The May 19 Arbor Day celebration will begin with remarks from Cayley Elsik, JBER natural resource manager, followed by a reading of the proclamation by U.S. Air Force Col. Lisa Mabbutt, JBER and 673d Air Base Wing commander and a presentation for JBER’s 30th anniversary as a “Tree City, USA.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony, students from Ursa Minor Elementary School will plant two birch trees and two spruce trees on the library grounds. Additional activities will include educational booths hosted by 673d Civil Engineering Squadron staff and a rock-painting booth.

Media outlets interested in covering the Arbor Day celebrations must RSVP no later than noon on Friday, May 16 to ensure base access and PA escort to the event. Please provide the name of the reporter, media outlet and contact number by sending an e-mail to jber.pa.mediaops@us.af.mil or call 907-551-8995.