HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 98-4729, by Representatives Chandler and Linville

     WHEREAS, In 1957, the legislature designated the second Wednesday in April each year to be celebrated as Arbor Day; and

     WHEREAS, Arbor Day is a day dedicated to recognizing the state tree, the western hemlock, and state flower, the rhododendron; and

     WHEREAS, Arbor Day is a traditional day for the planting of trees by Washington citizens, which has been celebrated in Washington since 1917, when Governor Ernest Lister conducted the first official observance; and

     WHEREAS, Nurseries, orchards, tree farms, public and private forests, horticultural and home orchards, and gardens all add to the beauty, economy, and vigor of our state; and

     WHEREAS, Arbor Day focuses community attention on planting trees while educating school children and all of Washington's citizens about the value of trees and plants in our neighborhoods, communities, and environment; and

     WHEREAS, Arbor Day focuses on the special role that trees play in the state's agricultural and timber-based economy, the importance of continued regeneration of our renewable resources, and the significance of trees in habitat for our state's wildlife; and

     WHEREAS, Washington is appropriately called the Evergreen State because of the contribution that trees and plants make to our jobs, environment, and quality of life;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives proclaim April 8, 1998, as Washington Arbor Day, and encourage residents to plant a tree and celebrate this day as a day to plant and nurture trees and all plant life in Washington.

                           --- END ---