Amata Applauds Arbor Day 2023
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is applauding Arbor Day, a popular and still growing day of emphasis that promotes the planting of trees worldwide, along with education on the immense ecological and health benefits of trees.
“Our beautiful tropical rainforest is green and lush,” said Congresswoman Amata. “We have an abundance of vegetation and trees, including fruit and coconuts. We treasure these natural blessings, and support the goals of Arbor Day everywhere, so that the trees and forests that do so much for healthy air and wildlife are preserved with strategic forethought. Here in American Samoa, we monitor our rainforest after storms, slides, heavy rains and wave erosion, and in our villages, can often add a sapling or even a helpful garden plant where we live.”
A 2019 coastal view of American Samoa with mountainous tropical forest
Arbor Day Puts Down Roots
Arbor Day began in Nebraska in 1872. Recognizing the absence of trees on the plains, and the need for shelter and shade, it started with a “plant a tree” message. That simple, productive goal spread powerfully through the states, soon backed by official proclamations by governors and legislatures, plus popular support, volunteers, and classroom projects, and the momentum has continued since.
“I serve on the Natural Resources Committee, led by the only professional forester in Congress, my friend Chairman Bruce Westerman of Arkansas,” Amata concluded. “Our Committee oversees and supports the National Forest Service, and works on legislation year-round to improve forest protection efforts, limit wildfires, and encourage the planting of millions more trees yearly.”
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