History of National Tree Planting Day
Jamaica is regarded as the island in the sun. The name ‘Jamaica’ is derived from the Taino word ‘Xaymaca’ which means ‘Land of Wood and Water’. When Columbus arrived on the island in 1494, no doubt he found an abundance of rich vegetation, water in its pristine state and a forest cover that was practically undisturbed.
Unfortunately much has changed over the years!
Today, about 40 per cent of the island is covered with forests.
In a bid to educate members of the public about the importance of trees to the economic and social life of the country, the Forestry Department, which is mandated to protect Jamaica’s forest resources, has implemented several public awareness programmes. These have achieved varying levels of success. In 2003 the Agency embarked on another initiative- the introduction of National Tree Planting Day.
National Tree Planting Day was first observed as part of the Forestry Department’s celebration of its 65th year of exemplary service to the island of Jamaica. On the 2003 occasion more than 200 schools, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations, service clubs, government agencies, private sector firms and other interested groups participated in this island wide event.
Based on the tremendous response and support of the event, the Agency decided to make National Tree Planting Day an annual event, which was declared by the then Governor General, Sir Howard Cooke.
The Forestry Department has done several tree planting day projects since the start of the initiative. Tree planting activities have been done at King’s House, National Heroes Park, Jesse Ripoll Primary School, St. Richard’s Primary School, Black River Square in St. Elizabeth and others.
This year the day will be marked under the theme: “Trees Today, Trees Tomorrow, Trees for Life.” Jamaicans are invited to participate in this year’s observance by engaging in tree planting activities. The Forestry Department distributes free tree seedlings to members of the public to facilitate their participation in the tree planting exercises. Distribution of seedlings started September 19 and goes until Friday, October 14, 2016.
