Celebrating Arbor Day in Milwaukee's North Shore

Arbor Day, a tradition rooted in the late 19th century, serves as an annual reminder of the vital role trees play in sustaining our environment and enhancing the beauty of our communities. Here is a guide to celebrating the occasion in the North Shore.  

North Shore Arbor Day Events and Activities in 2025

Arbor Day in Wisconsin is observed on the last Friday of April, which in 2025 falls on Friday, April 25th. Each of the North Shore communities has various ways for residents to participate in this celebration of trees.  

The Village of Fox Point will host its 55th annual Arbor Day celebration on Friday, April 25 at 2 pm at Mapledale School. The event will feature participation from the Village Forester, school officials, trustees, Tree Commission and Garden Club members, and students. A highlight of the program includes the Wisconsin DNR’s Regional Forestry Coordinator presenting the Tree City Flag to the community in recognition of Fox Point’s commitment to urban forestry.

In Bayside, residents have the opportunity to participate in the Bayside Adopt-a-Tree program. This initiative allows residents to purchase selected tree species for planting in the public right-of-way or on their private property. For trees planted in the public right-of-way, the cost is $300 and includes the tree, planting, mulching, and initial watering. Residents within the 2025 road project area may qualify for a reduced cost of $250 for right-of-way trees. For trees planted on private property, the cost is $350 and includes only the tree.

Shorewood will be hosting its 2025 Arbor Day Celebration on Friday, April 25th at 10 am at River Park. The Department of Public Works (DPW) Forestry division will be planting new trees, an effort supported in part by a grant from the Shorewood Men's Club. The entire community is invited to attend this event, which also marks Shorewood's 29th consecutive year as a Tree City USA.  

Mequon’s annual Arbor Day celebration is taking place Sunday, April 27, from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at River Barn Park. Last year, nearly 1,500 trees were distributed. Again this year, there will be raffles, a planting demonstration and numerous local nature-driven organizations will be on hand inside the pavilion. Don’t miss the forestry equipment that will be on display and rock painting for children! Free trees and shrubs will be given out (3 per person), while supplies last. Seedlings available this year include Black Cherry, Black Maple, Northern Red Oak, White Paper Birch, White Pine, White Spruce, American Elderberry, Hazelnut, Red Twig Dogwood, and Nannyberry.

Tree planting in Shorewood

Connecting with Tree Experts

Local nurseries and garden centers play a crucial role in supporting the urban forest by providing residents with healthy trees and expert advice. Staff at these establishments possess valuable knowledge about which tree species are best suited for the local climate and soil conditions of the Milwaukee North Shore. They can offer guidance on selecting native trees and provide specific instructions on proper planting techniques and ongoing care requirements. Visiting a local nursery allows residents to not only purchase high-quality trees but also to tap into a wealth of horticultural expertise that can significantly contribute to the success of their tree planting endeavors.  

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is a key state agency that provides a wealth of information on forestry-related topics. Their website offers guidelines on tree planting , details about Arbor Day in Wisconsin , and information on various urban forestry programs. The DNR also plays a central role in recognizing communities for their urban forestry efforts through the Tree City USA program. Residents can find a wide range of educational materials and practical advice on the DNR's website to support their tree planting and care endeavors.  

The local county UW-Extension office serves as another excellent resource for residents. As part of the University of Wisconsin system, the Extension provides research-based information and advice tailored to the specific conditions of the region. They can offer guidance on tree selection, planting techniques, and ongoing care practices suitable for the Milwaukee area's climate and soil types. The UW-Extension also provides resources on understanding hardiness zones and may have specific publications relevant to tree care in Wisconsin, such as the "Guide to Selecting Landscape Plants for Wisconsin" (A2865). Contacting the local UW-Extension office or exploring their website can connect residents with valuable expertise and resources.  

On a national level, the Arbor Day Foundation is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. Their website is a comprehensive source of information on all aspects of tree care, including guidance on tree selection, planting best practices, and tips for maintaining tree health. The Arbor Day Foundation also promotes Arbor Day activities and offers various programs to support tree planting and conservation efforts across the country. Residents can find a wealth of educational materials and opportunities for involvement through this organization.  

Finally, while the North Shore communities are distinct from the City of Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Forestry Division is the entity responsible for managing street trees and green spaces within the city. Their website may contain general information on tree care practices and tree species suitable for the broader Milwaukee region, which could be a useful reference for North Shore residents seeking general guidance on urban forestry.  

Trees are an invaluable asset to the Milwaukee North Shore communities, contributing significantly to the environment, the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods, and the overall quality of life for residents. Arbor Day serves as an important annual reminder of the numerous benefits trees provide and encourages active participation in their care and expansion. By understanding the best times and methods for planting, adopting effective ongoing care practices, and taking advantage of local programs and resources, residents can become integral stewards of their urban forest.