HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 99-4665, by Representatives G. Chandler, Regala, Esser, Skinner, Carlson, D. Schmidt, Thomas, Hankins, Benson, Fortunato, Dunn and Pflug

      WHEREAS, In 1957, the Washington State Legislature designated Washington Arbor Day to be celebrated by the citizens of the state on the second Wednesday in April of each year; 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, There is renewed interest in increasing the abundance of trees and shrubs along the state's rivers and streams as a means to improve salmon habitat;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives proclaim April 14, 1999, as Arbor Day and encourage residents to plant a tree or shrub and celebrate this day as a day to plant and nurture trees and all plant life in Washington.

      I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

      Resolution 4665 adopted by the House of Representatives

                          April 14, 1999.

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Timothy A. Martin, Co-Chief Clerk    Dean R. Foster Co-Chief Clerk