Franklin Parks Commission sets Arbor Day for May 2, selects tree mix and expands partners

Franklin City’s Parks Commission confirmed plans for its Arbor Day event on May 2, 9 a.m. to noon, and discussed tree species, distribution logistics and partner booths at its Jan. 12 meeting.

Staff said tree supply this year excludes some species and that seedlings are packaged in bundles of 25. Commissioners recommended a mix that would likely include river birch, pagoda dogwood, white cedar, false indigo and black cherry. One member explained that some homeowners prefer smaller broadleaf trees over oaks because of perceived height and acorn litter.

Commissioners agreed to expand the event’s footprint with additional tables and invited nonprofits and community groups to host interpretive booths for children. The library offered indoor space as a rain‑backup and to coordinate mail‑opt in options for the city newsletter. Staff asked interested groups to contact Marion to reserve table space; organizers said they will reconvene in March to finalize table assignments and species availability.

The commission also proposed including a hands‑on educational demonstration about identifying and removing invasive buckthorn at the Arbor Day event and to highlight city buckthorn removal efforts in the newsletter.