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An Arbor Day Celebration was held Friday at Russellville Elementary School and Morristown’s continued commitment to area trees was once again highlighted along with educational achievements of students.

Organized by the Morristown Tree Board, the event consisted of remarks by officials, including some from Tennessee Division of Forestry Representatives, and awards for a student poster contest. City Council Member Al A’Hearn was present to read a proclamation from the city.

“Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world, and whereas trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce life-giving oxygen, and provide habitats for wildlife, and whereas trees are a renewable resource, giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products,” he said during the proclamation.

John Henderson, with the TDF, was on hand to recognize the city’s status as a Tree City USA designee. This designation, he explained, involves, having an active tree care ordinance, having a tree advocacy group like the Morristown Tree Board, spending a certain amount of money per resident on trees and, finally, an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

“You have to spend at least $2 per person on tree care in your city,” Henderson said. “Now, Morristown has not spent $2. They’ve not spent $5. They’ve not even spent $10. Last year, Morristown spent a whopping $34.57 per person on trees and taking care of their trees.

“This is one of the highest in the state. So I think we need to give Morristown a big hand for what they’ve done.”

After recognizing the city, Henderson recognized Morristown Utilities for their continuing status as a Tree Line USA organization for its 21st year.

Students were awarded prizes for a poster contest that every school can submit for. This year, students from Russellville Elementary School took home every prize.

Ariel Park won first place, Jensen Frye won second and Abby Fox won third.

Teacher Angela Hill was recognized with an award for her efforts in tree education.

Many organizations contributed cash and materials for prizes for the program including Morristown Utilities, Hamblen County Soil and Water Conservation District, Morristown Tree Service, Farris Motors, Southeast Landscape Supply, Fazoli’s, Great American Cookies, Little Dutch Restaurant, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Cruze Farm and In/Out Pizza.

Greenworks donated battery operated landscape tools for the event.

Other sponsors include Dunkin’, Central Market, Buff City Soap, 7 Brew Coffee, Crumbl Cookies, Morristown Landing and Michael’s Pizza Cottage.

Southeast Landscape Supply supplied the Pin Oak Tree that was planted for the event.