SHAWANO, WI- The City of Shawano will celebrate Arbor Day on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, with a ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. at Smalley Park. The public is invited to attend.
During the celebration, members of the City of Shawano Tree Advisory Committee and city officials will present the 2025 Friend of Nature Award to Mike Bohm, of 1116 S. Sawyer Street. The Friend of Nature Award is given annually to individuals and businesses that demonstrate leadership and commitment to enhancing their properties through the planting and protection of trees and landscape plants. These efforts not only beautify the properties but also contribute to better air quality, improved stormwater retention, bird habitats, and aesthetic value.
In honor of Bohm’s contributions, a “Nature’s Friend” sign will be placed in his yard, and a tree will be planted at Smalley Park in his name by the City of Shawano’s Department of Public Works.
Fourth- and fifth-grade students from Olga Brenner, St. James, and Sacred Heart Schools will participate in the celebration, helping to plant the tree in Smalley Park. The Tree Advisory Committee hopes the event will foster a greater appreciation among young people for the many benefits of trees and shrubs.
This year also marks several milestones for the City of Shawano:
- 31 years as a “Tree City USA” member,
- 13 years receiving the “Growth Award,”
- and 22 years recognized as a “Tree Line USA” community, with support from Shawano Municipal Utilities.
Patricia Lindquist, Regional Representative with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, will present the awards to city officials during the event.
The City of Shawano Tree Advisory Committee members are Ross Langhurst (Chair), Bob Dumke, Tom Sturm (retiring), Marilyn Kroenke, and Ben Thomas. Advisors to the committee include Mike Kroenke (City Forester), Mike Mahloch (Director of Public Works), and Shawano Mayor Bruce Milavitz.
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