Trees are important, and the Town of Mocksville continued its tradition of becoming a Tree City USA on Arbor Day, April 20, by planting scores of shrubs and trees in the new downtown park.

Aided by students from Mocksville Elementary School and Master Gardeners, the town planted new trees and encouraged all residents to do the same.

Trees, said Mayor Will Marklin, reduce erosion, moderate temperatures, clean the air, provide wildlife habitat and produce oxygen.

They also look good, and are a renewable resource that provides many useful products.

“Mocksville plans to continue planting trees, and urges all citizens to care for trees and woodlands,” Marklin said. “The purpose of planting trees is for future generations to enjoy.”

Town Manager Marcus Abernethy said it is the 25th consecutive year Mocksville has been designated a Tree City.

Pam Jones, Extension horticulturist and Master Gardener coordinator for Davie County, urged the students to learn about trees and other plants. “You wouldn’t believe how many people don’t know where their food comes from,” she said.

Her and other Master Gardeners were busy on Arbor Day planting a pollinator garden to attract butterflies, bees, bats and insects that pollinate flowers, plants and trees.

She asked the students if they knew the importance of pollinators. She told them to consider their lunch and take away two fifths, at least that much was the result of a pollinator.

“Three out of every five bites of food were pollinated. You wouldn’t have it on your plate without pollinators,” she said.

Even the wind is a good pollinator.

“You don’t have to grow up to be a good steward of the environment. You can start now,” Jones said.