|
For a high resolution copy, contact:
info@vnla.org
[(l-r) Don Agren, Leighton Powell, Bonnie Appleton,
First Lady Anne Holton, Rich Johnson, Lin Diacont, Mike
Liken]
SEEDS FOR FUTURE GROWTH PLANTED DURING VIRGINIA ARBOR
DAY CEREMONIES APRIL 28
Virginia celebrated Arbor Day on April 28, 2006 by
planting for the future.
In ceremonies on the grounds of the Executive Mansion
in Richmond, the Virginia Green Industry Council (VGIC)
planted a handsome Cherokee Princess Dogwood tree which
will grow to add year-round beauty to the home of
Virginia’s Governors.
Virginia Arbor Day, as officially proclaimed by
Governor Tim Kaine, is part of a national celebration
that encourages tree planting and care. Arbor Day is a
time to recognize the enormous contributions trees make
to the economy, environment and quality of life for the
Commonwealth. Trees add oxygen to the air, absorb carbon
dioxide and reduce storm runoff. Trees provide the
materials for numerous products create jobs for
thousands of workers and reduce the energy needed for
heating and cooling. Trees also add beauty to the
landscape, provide privacy and reduce noise pollution.
Rich Johnson, VNLA President commented on the
significance of the Virginia Ornamental Plant Evaluation
and Introduction Program. "The landscape/nursery
industry is the fastest growing agricultural industry in
the Commonwealth. With the Ornamental Plant Evaluation
and Introduction Program, named "Beautiful Gardens™",
industry leaders and their public and private partners
hope to increase the visibility and economic impact of
ornamental horticulture further in Virginia."
Along with the tree planting, Dr. Bonnie Appleton of
the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension
Center made a presentation about America’s Anniversary
Gardens. Virginia Cooperative Extension has developed
the America's Anniversary Garden to help individuals and
communities mark America's 400th Anniversary of
Jamestown, the first permanent settlement. These
statewide signature gardens and landscapes will have
red, white, and blue color schemes.
Dr. Appleton also announced plans for upcoming
events and installation of America’s Anniversary
Gardens.
VGIC is the proactive voice of Virginia’s Green
Industry which includes nursery and landscape companies,
arborists, flower growers, landscape designers, Master
Gardeners, florists, Christmas tree growers, turfgrass
companies and greenhouse growers. VGIC coordinates Green
industry organizations, providing education,
environmental guidelines and other information to keep
Virginia green and growing. For more information about
the Virginia Green Industry Council, log onto
www.virginiagreen.org.
For a high resolution copy, contact:
info@vnla.org
Participants in the Virginia Green Industry Council
Arbor Day Ceremony
at the Governor's Mansion on Friday, April 28, 2006
For additional information, contact: Jeff Miller at
540-382-0943 or
info@VirginiaGreen.org |
