City to host Arbor Day celebration at Ponderosa Park

The City of Yuma Parks and Recreation Department invites residents to participate in its Arbor Day celebration on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 9 a.m. at Ponderosa Park (3086 W. 26th Street).

During the event, Yuma Mayor Doug Nicholls will read the Arbor Day proclamation, followed by a ceremonial tree planting led by City staff and volunteers. Approximately 15 trees approved for Yuma's environment will be planted and are expected to provide significant shade as they mature.

Students from area schools typically attend the celebration to learn about the tree-planting process, and community members are encouraged to take part. Participants may join in planting the trees or simply observe the activity. Parks and Recreation staff will provide tools and guidance; however, attendees are encouraged to bring their own gardening gloves. The event is free and open to the public.

"Arbor Day gives our community an opportunity to invest in Yuma's future by planting trees that will provide shade and enhance our parks for years to come," said Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Espy Matlock.

Yuma's Arbor Day celebration also supports the City's continued participation in the Tree City USA program through the Arbor Day Foundation, a national designation recognizing communities committed to effective urban forestry management.

This year's Arbor Day celebration is supported by APS, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Arbor Tech, and All Star Tree Service.

For more information, contact Parks and Recreation at 928-373-5200.