WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Watertown planted a bur oak at Thompson Park on Arbor Day to honor Mike Lumbis, the city’s planning and community director, who has overseen the planting of hundreds of trees in recent years.
“Every day is a great day for planting trees, but it’s a little extra special on Arbor Day,” said Lumbis.
The tree was planted at the 29th Annual Arbor Day Ceremony. Speakers from the city of Watertown, Tree Watertown and the Watertown Noon Rotary Club discussed the benefits of planting trees in the community.
“Property values go up when you plant a tree,” said Phil Sprague, founding member of Tree Watertown. “People’s health gets better when you plant a tree. Crime goes down when you plant a tree in the neighborhood. I mean that’s just the beginning.”
Lumbis was one of the first to help plant the tree in the ground.
“You know this tree was planted in my honor, but it’s really about all of the efforts by the community and all the volunteers,” Lumbis said.
Mayor Sarah Pierce said the tree was chosen for its characteristics.
“The bur oak is a strong and resilient species, known for its longevity and ability to thrive, which are fitting words to describe Mike’s impact on our community,” Pierce said.
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