With Harrodsburg’s 250^th anniversary right around the corner the Harrodsburg’s local Tree Board has been working tirelessly to beautify our community and help the environment. Trees are more than aesthetically pleasing. They combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen to provide crucial habitats for wildlife, trees offer a plethora of benefits. Their shade and canopy help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reducing energy consumption and improving air quality in urban areas. 

The tree board is made up of all volunteers, including the Mercer County Horticulture agent who worked together creating a planting plan for the city of Harrodsburg. The board used this plan when applying for the KU Plant for the Planet Grant, which they were awarded this spring.  With help from the Kentucky Division of Forestry and the City of Harrodsburg the Tree Board was able to plant 30 new trees around the city.  After the trees were planted the tree board hosted an Arbor Day celebration where many of our local leaders like the mayor and county judge were in attendance. 

The planting of 30 trees by the Harrodsburg tree board symbolizes a proactive step towards fostering a greener, more sustainable future in our community. The short-term goal of this planting is for the 250^th celebration but long term, these plantings will be enjoyed by multiple generations to come.