Arlington Heights officials, students celebrate trees on Arbor Day
An Osage orange - typically the type of tree that lines farmers' fields - is the latest addition to Greenbrier Park in Arlington Heights, planted Friday in recognition of Arbor Day.
Village Forester Dru Sabatello said the tree species is noted for the fruit it produces - though this tree, in particular, was cultivated not to - but also the wood that can be reutilized when the tree has reached the end of its life cycle. The village used recycled parkway ash trees cut down from the emerald ash borer infestation to make wooden benches, display cases, paneling and tables in the new police station.
The annual planting ceremony led by village and park district officials was preceded by a musical performance by Greenbrier Elementary School kindergartners, and the award of winners in a tree drawing contest in three age categories.