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The Year of Trees: National Day of Forests at Asbury Woods
Sylvan celebration takes root
March 13, 2024 at 8:00 AM
Erin Phillips
Asbury Woods will be hosting two free guided hikes in celebration of the upcoming National Day of Forests. This year has been defined by the conservation nonprofit as the Year of Trees, so what better way to celebrate trees than with a hike through the trees, guided by Asbury's knowledgeable staff?
THURSDAY, MAR. 21
Each year, Asbury Woods chooses a theme — a focus for their programming and outreach activities that allows them to do a deep dive into varying environmental and conservation topics. With the beginning of 2024 came the newest theme: The Year of Trees.
If you've been to Asbury Woods, you know that trees are in abundance on the over 200-acre property, making this year's theme especially fitting. The rich history of Asbury Woods goes back more than 100 years to 1920, when Dr. Otto Behrend, co-founder of Hammermill Paper Company, bought 110 acres of land known then as Asbury Farm.
With a background steeped in all aspects of papermaking, Dr. Behrend developed an appreciation for trees and their power early on, something that was integral to the beginnings and growth of the land we now know as Asbury Woods.
But even if you don't work with trees directly, the impact they make in daily life is even greater than you may realize. From providing shade and lowering energy costs, to contributing to cleaner air and erosion prevention, the list of benefits trees contribute to communities is vast.
In keeping with their yearly theme and in celebration of the National Day of Forests, observed each year on Mar. 21, Asbury Woods will be hosting two guided hikes on their property for those looking to get out and enjoy nature. This event is free with no pre-registration required. Hikes will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. and from 5 to 6 p.m., beginning at the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center and will be approximately two to three miles long. Hikers are advised to dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
10 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 6 p.m. // Asbury Woods Nature Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. // Free // For more info: asburywoods.org