Haddonfield Celebrates Earth Day Saturday

Haddonfield celebrates Earth Day today with All Rhoads Lead to Crows Woods, a Tricentennial Earth Day Celebration, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Crows Woods Pavilion. It's sponsored by the Environmental Commission, Sustainable Haddonfield, Historical Society, Shade Tree Commission and Crows Woods Gardeners. It features:

• Academy of Natural Sciences Live Raptors
• Guided Nature Hike to the Beaver Dams
• Kids’ Crafts and Games
• Samuel Rhoads Birthday Cupcakes
• Expert Tree Advice

The Shade Tree Commission will be taking orders for shade trees for private properties or to be donated for public use.

It has selected fifteen small, medium and large trees suitable for various growing conditions in gardens or along streets. All will provide shade as they grow, according to a news release. Some have showy flowers or fruits. Many are native, offering food and shelter to local birds and other wildlife.

The commission says planting a tree is a ideal way to commemorate the birth of a child or grandchild or to mark other important family events or just to enhance the beauty of your yard. And while the Tricentennial Tree program is not intended to replace the town’s own tree planting initiatives, it is nevertheless an excellent opportunity to supplement shade tree plantings at a time when Haddonfield’s focus is on the removal of blight-stricken red oak and pin oak trees.

All trees will come prepped, pruned and labeled as Tricentennial Trees. Donated trees are tax-deductible and will be planted by trained teams at selected locations. Trees purchased for private property will be ready for pick-up and planting on or before October 5. The trees, priced at $125 each, will be 5-8 feet tall with a 1- to 1-1/2”-diameter trunk, grown in containers for easier handling. A limited selection of premium trees, priced at $350 each, will be taller, with a 2- to 2-1/2”-diameter trunk; the premium tree price includes planting. All purchasers, donors, sponsors and volunteers will be honored in print and online for their support. Records of this event will be presented to the Historical Society of Haddonfield for posterity.