04/22/2025
At SUNY Cortland, Arbor Day is about more than digging a hole for a new tree. There are also opportunities to learn about the plant life around us.
On Arbor Day, Friday, April 25, members of the campus community are invited to attend a daylong schedule of events hosted by students in the Environmental and Outdoor Education class taught by Dr. N. Qwynne Lackey, an assistant professor in the Recreation, Parks and Leisure Studies Department.
“We forget that trees are in our yards and on our campus,” said Ashely Perretta, a graduate student in recreation and member of Lackey’s class. “Planning for Arbor Day has helped me to understand the value of trees everywhere, big and small, near and far.”
A variety of events is planned for the day. There is, of course, the annual tree planting. But there’s also a tree care workshop, a tree photo contest, a guided tree walk and much more.
“Planning an Arbor Day event has shown the importance of the holiday,” said Logan Bowling, another graduate recreation student in the class. “The diversity of trees on campus and across upstate New York truly defines the landscape. Hopefully, this event will inspire others to recognize the role that greenspaces play in student wellbeing. Being a part of the team that has put this event together has really been special.”
For Cortland’s 12th Arbor Day celebration, Lackey’s class is hosting six events on behalf of SUNY Cortland’s Tree Advisory Committee. The events, which will be, “filled with fun, learning and community spirit” include:
- Tree Care Workshop
8-9 a.m., Student Life Center (SLC), Room 1104
Learn about proper tree pruning and care. Workshop includes a 30-minute presentation followed by a live outdoor demonstration with real trees and tools. - Make a Difference on Arbor Day
9-11 a.m., Front entrance of the Student Life Center (SLC)
Join us for this hands-on volunteer session. Come prepared to for light outdoor work to help keep our campus green and clean. Your time will make a big difference! - Tree Planting Ceremony
11:30 a.m., Meet at the grassy area between Lusk and Park Center
Plant a tree and leave your mark on our campus. This annual tree planting ceremony is a proud SUNY Cortland tradition involving students, faculty and staff.
- Guided Tree Walk
Noon-1 p.m., Front entrance of the Student Life Center (SLC)
Discover the diversity of trees on campus. You'll uncover the hidden stories, surprising benefits, and natural beauty you pass by every day. - Treebling Activities
10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Corey Union and Student Life Center (SLC)
Stop by our tables at the SLC and Corey Union tables for exciting trivia games, the Arbor Day photobooth, maple syrup tasting, and more! Learn more about the significance of Arbor Day and win prizes. - Photo Contest
Monday, April 21 – Friday, April 25
Participate in our photo contest running from April 21 to April 25. Capture the essence of Arbor Day and submit your photos for a chance to win fantastic prizes. Enter your photos online here. - Campus tree map
Any time, any day
SUNY Cortland has a geospatial map of all trees on campus that can be used to identify and learn more about any of the university’s trees. You can find the app here or through Cortland’s geospatial hub, which maps locations of campus bicycle racks, water bottle stations and more.