Meyer Plants Tree with Winners of the 2013 Arbor Day Poster Contest

This story was written and reported by Local Editor Lauren Lanzon.

Margaret Martin of Walsh Intermediate School in Branford was joined by Senator Ed Meyer (D-Guilford) and fifth graders from across the state for an Arbor Day ceremony at the State Capitol today. In honor of Arbor Day, a Northern Red Oak tree was planted on the north side of the Capitol building with help from the children. 

Students were each presented with a plaque congratulating them for winning the Connecticut Tree Protective Association’s (CTPA) Arbor Day Poster contest. Margaret’s poster features a detailed picture she drew of her favorite tree in Branford, complete with the tire swing she and her friends are so familiar with. 

“We could not have picked a more beautiful spring day for these young artists to join us at the Capitol and make their mark on the grounds,” said Senator Ed Meyer. “I hope the young tree they planted will one day grow to inspire the same kind of appreciation for nature that Margaret’s tree has done for her.” 

Fifth grade students throughout Connecticut were challenged by CTPA to look at trees in their town and create a poster featuring their favorite. One winner was chosen from each of Connecticut’s eight counties and came to the Capitol on Arbor Day to help with the tree planting and receive their plaque. 

CTPA is an organization with nearly 800 members dedicated to promoting appreciation and care for Connecticut’s trees. Events are held throughout the year to educate state residents about proper tree care and encourage them to pursue their arborist license. Every year CTPA hosts a competition to engage students across the state about the trees that decorate their communities. This year is the first time the competition has taken the form of a poster contest, and organizers were thrilled to receive entries from students all across Connecticut.