The first Saturday in May will mark two notable events in Perham: Arbor Day and the start of Bike or Walk to Work or School Week.
The Perham City Council designated the date for these two events in separate proclamations signed last week.
The city will recognize Arbor Day on May 5; Bike or Walk to Work or School Week will be May 5-13.
According to the Arbor Day proclamation, "Trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community."
As such, the city is urging all citizens to plant trees. The proclamation states trees are beneficial in that they can reduce the erosion of topsoil, cut heating and cooling costs, clean the air and provide habitat for wildlife, among other things.
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Through a special Arbor Day promotion, all Perham residential property owners were eligible to sign up for free boulevard trees through April 10. Volunteers will plant those trees on May 5.
National Arbor Day is Friday, April 27.
Bike or Walk to Work or School Week is just what it sounds like - during this week, the city will be encouraging increased use of bicycles and walking as a means of transportation.
"Biking and walking are two of the easiest and most efficient ways to increase energy, manage weight and reduce health risks," according to the proclamation. In addition to the health benefits, they are "environmentally sound and effective means of personal transportation."
