Arbor Day Tree Talk
The Arbor Day Tree Talk is a community celebration highlighting the unique and various trees across Bloomington-Normal. Participants will learn about different tree species, their significance, historical facts and stories, and the environmental benefits the tree provides to our community and world. Visitors will also see first-hand the commitment our community shares to tree-planting, protecting and conserving our natural resources, education, and environmental stewardship. Representatives from each location will be on site to share information and will “speak for the trees.”Free and open to the community! No registration is required.The Bloomington Normal Arbor Day Affiliates is a partnership between five groups who have received recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation. This certification recognizes towns, cities, and industries dedicated to improving communities through tree-planting best practices.The Town of Normal, a certified Tree City USAThe City of Bloomington, a certified Tree City USAWestminster Village, a certified Tree Campus Healthcare FacilityIllinois State University, a certified Tree Campus for Higher EducationHeartland Community College, pursuing Tree Campus for Higher Education certificationHow the Arbor Day Tree Talk works:The tour is meant to be at your own pace. You may choose to visit each location, a couple, or only one. Start and stop where you choose. Create a travel plan that works for you! Note that Tree Talks take place at each location at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. There is a short break from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. to allow time for lunch and to stagger the Tree Talks for participants interested in attending multiple sessions. These Tree Talks are given by experts at each stop and will provide more detailed information on the species of trees at that location.The Town of Normal: Underwood Park200 Jersey Avenue, Normal | Parking available at Underwood Park parking lotTree Talks at 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.Featuring:Hardy Rubber TreeSpaeth’s AlderMerrill MagnoliaShumard OakState Street MapleCentennial LindenHeartland Community College: Edible Windbreak1500 Raab Road, Normal | Park in the “Lot S” or “Lot A” on the southwest part of campus.Tree Talks at 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Featuring:Gala AppleBartlett PearPaw PawBing Sweet CherryIllinois State University, Fell Arboretum: Duffy Bass Field502 N Adelaide St, Normal | Parking available at Lot G81. Follow sidewalk line.Tree Talks at 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Featuring:Red OakWhite OakSwamp White OakRed MapleSugar MapleThe City of Bloomington: Ewing Park III Children and Elder’s Forest901 Jersey Ave, Bloomington | Parking available along Jersey Ave.Tree Talks at 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.Featuring:Burr OakTulip TreeHackberryBlack gumKentucky CoffeetreeWestminster Village: Fountain and Foundation GardensFrom Veteran’s Parkway, east on Lincoln Street, left on Mercer | Park in the front of the building. Additional parking space on the right when leaving the front door parking area. All visitors must sign-in at the front door.Tree Talks at 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.Featuring:Ivory Silk Lilac TreeHoney LocustRed Sunset MapleEastern RedbudHere is a brochure that provides a comprehensive overview of everything happening during the Arbor Day Tree Talk event.Arbor Day Tree Talk BrochureDownload