Representatives from the Auburn Garden Club, Auburn Tree Board, Auburn Parks Board and the state Department of Natural Resources joined Mayor Pete Lewis and City officials in planting a Katsura tree as part of the Arbor Day celebration at Veterans Memorial Park on Wednesday.

The Auburn Garden Club and the Chinook District of Garden Clubs donated the tree, which can grow to 40 feet.

Lewis also proclaimed April 20 as Arbor Day in Auburn and encourages citizens to support the efforts to protect trees and woodlands, and plant trees for generations to enjoy.

Auburn is recognized by the National Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA, which recognizes communities that effectively manage their urban forest and meet standards.

The City, in keeping with its standing, planted nearly 300 trees in its parks last year.

As part of Auburn’s Tree City USA designation, the City of Auburn Planning Department manages community grants that encourages citizens to apply for tree plantings in residential and commercial neighborhoods. In exchange for financial assistance, groups must commit to plant, water and maintain the trees.

For additional information about tree grants, call the planning department at 253-931-3090.