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Plant a tree. Take a walk in the woods. Start recycling paper products. Whatever you choose to do, the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection encourages Alaskans to take time for Arbor Day on Monday, May 15. Established in 1872, Arbor Day educates children and adults about the importance of trees, and recognizes the
Prunus padus, commonly known as European bird cherry (EBC), chokecherry, or mayday trees, and Prunus virginiana, commonly known as Canadian red, or chokecherry, were originally introduced in Alaska as attractive, ornamental trees. However, each has since been deemed an invasive species with the potential to significantly affect native ecosystems in Alaska. “While chokecherry trees are a springtime favorite of many Alaskans for their beautiful and aromatic blossoms, they are becoming what some ecologists call ‘rogue ornamentals,’ “said Jim Renkert, manager of the Division’s Communi...