East New Mexico News

The City of Roswell's Keep Roswell Beautiful program is set to host an Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway. This event aims to provide tree and shrub seedlings to residents who wish to plant them on their properties. Scheduled for Saturday, April 12, the giveaway will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. at Spring River Zoo, located at 1306 E. College Blvd.

The event is free and will distribute seedlings on a first-come, first-served basis. Each adult attending can receive at least one seedling while supplies last. The types of trees and shrubs available will depend on supply but are selected for their suitability to the region.

Attendees will also receive additional items including a reusable car trash container from the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s Toss No Mas program, a two-pack box of LED light bulbs donated by Xcel Energy, and a Keep Roswell Beautiful reusable shopping tote. These totes and seedlings are partially funded by the New Mexico Department of Tourism’s Clean and Beautiful Grant Program.

Volunteers are sought for assistance during the event from 8 to 11:30 a.m., including setup and cleanup activities. Those interested in volunteering or seeking more information about the giveaway can contact TJ Conyers at 575-637-6274.

National Arbor Day falls on the last Friday of April each year; however, states have flexibility in choosing their own dates for celebration. In New Mexico, Arbor Day is officially observed on the second Friday in March. The Roswell event is timed annually between these state and national observances.