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Join the Austin Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department in celebrating Arbor Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, May 10 at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center Ruby Rupner Auditorium. 

This event is a chance to come together as a community and take meaningful action to protect and grow our community forest. 

As part of the event, the Austin High School Go Green Club will be giving away more than 40 free trees. Registration opens at 10 a.m., and the first round of tree giveaways are first come, first served while supplies last. 

The second opportunity to win a free tree will be presented to all who participate in the Free Tree Planting workshop at 10:30 a.m.. The drawing for this will take place at 11a.m. Each household is limited to one entry and may only win one tree. Don’t forget to sign up before other activities get underway!

The day will begin with a brief welcome at the Ruby Rupner Auditorium, followed by live demonstrations on tree planting, basic care, and maintenance. City staff will also lead a brief hike to explore mature trees along the Nature Center trails.

Inside the auditorium, visitors can enjoy a continuous slideshow presentation highlighting tree species that are well-suited for local yards. 

Additional activities include: 

• Tree identification crafts for kids 
• Information on the Emerald Ash Borer 
• Details about the Parks & Rec Department’s new Adopt-a-Tree Program • Expert advice from local nurseries on tree selection and care 

Tienda y Taqueria Guerrero will be on-site selling a variety of delicious food throughout the event.