Thousands of trees and shrubs have been planted throughout the Whistler Valley over the past nine years that Arbor Day has been celebrated. On May 8, Whistler residents are invited to join a tradition and an annual celebration of trees, which was started by Sterling Morton in Nebraska in 1872. This year’s goal is to continue the rehabilitation project started last year on the banks of the road frontage at the Whistler Heliport. The area needs to be planted with shrubs, because trees would grow into the helicopter flight zone. Planting will also take place along the banks of the River of Golden Dreams. A display booth will be set up in the village from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. where free tree seedlings will be handed out, as well as free advice from Ministry of Forests staff, certified arborists and professional foresters. There will also be displays about forest recreation, silviculture, and horticulture. Work on the site begins at 9 a.m. Some tools will be available, but anyone able to bring their own, especially mattocks, is advised to do so. A post-planting barbecue for all Arbor Day participants starts at 2:30 p.m. at the Edgewater Outdoor Centre. Paul Beswetherick, parks horticulturist, can be contacted with suggestions of tree-needy areas in Whistler, at 932-2423.
