Join in the Snoqualmie Arbor Day Celebration, Saturday morning, May 3, at the Railroad Park Gazebo in downtown Snoqualmie, 7971 Railroad Ave. S.E.

Mayor Matt Larson will speak at 10 a.m., and receive Snoqualmie’s first “Tree City USA Growth Award” from the Department of Natural Resources. There will be games for children and a free tree seedling giveaway. This year’s winner of the kids’ Arbor Day poster contest will be announced.

At 11:45 a.m., citizens are invited to help with the annual tree planting. This year, American sweetgum trees will be planted at Snoqualmie Community Park to replace trees that were lost in the ice storm in 2011. The park is adjacent to the Snoqualmie Valley YMCA at 35016 S.E. Ridge St. Participants should wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, gloves, and rain gear as needed. No experience is required.

At 1:45 p.m., a free tree-pruning workshop will be held at Railroad Park. Please bring your tree questions, which will be answered by City of Snoqualmie Arborist Phil Bennett. Topics can include correct tree planting practices, pruning and maintenance, selecting quality nursery stock, right tree/right place, and disease problems. Bring a photo of your tree concern. RSVP is optional, but appreciated at pbennett@ci.snoqualmie.wa.us or (425) 766-2452.

For more information about the Arbor Day Celebration, tree planting events, and workshop, please call the Snoqualmie Parks & Recreation Department at 425-831-5784 or write to itreptow@ci.snoqualmie.wa.us.