Master Gardener Program and Local School Celebrate America 250 with Tree Planting Ceremony

June 04, 2026
Tree 003 Web

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the Erie County Master Gardener Program, OSU Extension and students from St. Peter’s Catholic School Garden Club came together to plant a commemorative tree as a lasting symbol of growth, stewardship, and community pride in Dancing Waters Park on Berlin Road in Huron this past week.

The tree planting ceremony brought together Master Gardener volunteers, students, educators, and community members to celebrate this historic milestone in our nation’s history. Participants learned about the importance of trees in our environment and the role each generation plays in preserving natural resources for the future.

The newly planted Swamp White Oak tree will serve as a living reminder of America’s semiquincentennial and the shared commitment to cultivating strong communities and a healthy environment. Garden Club students actively participated in the planting process, gaining hands-on experience while helping create a meaningful legacy for future generations.

The Swamp White Oak was selected as it plays a vital role in our ecosystem. Known for attracting butterflies and birds, it also bears acorns and is native to Ohio. This tree represents not only our nation’s rich history but also our hopes for the future as we continue to grow, learn, and work together, explained Erie County Master Gardner Pat Frey.

“We are honored to partner with the St. Pete’s Garden Club in celebrating America 250,” stated Frey. We have worked with the students under the direction of Principal Beth Telenko. This past school year the club had eight members from grades Kindergarten through third grade participating.

The Master Gardener Program extends its appreciation to the students, faculty, volunteers, and community supporters who helped make this special event possible. The Swamp White Oak was 80% funded through the Backyard Mini Grant through Erie Soil & Water with the balance paid for by the Erie County Master Gardners. Huron Parks & Recreation donated the land for the tree to be planted.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, projects like this tree planting help connect communities to our nation’s heritage while investing in a greener future for generations to come.