Augusta University marks Arbor Day with tree plantings

Three Augusta University campuses received a new tree on Friday to commemorate Arbor Day.

A live oak was planted at Christenberry Field House; a pecan tree was planted in the grove on the Summerville Campus; and an Eagleston holly was planted by J. Harold Harrison, M.D. Education Commons on the Health Sciences Campus.

The event was organized by the Facilities Operations Division, and students and athletic coaches participated in the ceremonial plantings. They agreed that they were “planting history,” as the trees won’t reach full maturity for several decades.

“More than anything, we are doing it for the future, so people can enjoy the shade, the economic and ecological benefits and reduce our carbon footprint,” said Augusta University Landscaping and Grounds Manager Scott Davis.

The live oak is the state tree of Georgia and is often called one of the most impressive North American trees, according to the Arbor Day Foundation. Live oaks can live to be hundreds of years old. The pecan tree planted at Summerville joined other, more mature pecan trees in the grove. Pecan trees are the only major nut tree that grows naturally in North America. The Eagleston holly is evergreen, ornamental tree that produces bright red berries in the cooler months.

Arbor Day is observed on the third Friday in February in the state of Georgia. While the national celebration takes place in April, the subtropical climate in Georgia is far more hospitable to plant life earlier in the year.