For Gaffney Board of Public Works, this year’s Arbor Day tree planting ceremony at Limestone Central Elementary looked a little different than in years past. On Wednesday, the BPW tree-trimming crew planted three trees in the school’s front lawn with only principal Dr. Bryan Hullender in attendance.

Even though students aren’t at school right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was important for BPW to proceed with their annual Arbor Day planting. And to commemorate this particular year, a different type of tree was chosen to be planted – a dawn redwood. The dawn redwood will retain 150- to 200-foot height when it’s fully matured, explained BPW crew chief and arborist Ernie Ramsey. “With this year’s COVID pandemic, I wanted to plant this specific tree so the Limestone Central students can look back one day, see this huge tree, and remember this particular moment in time.”

In addition to the dawn redwood, two redbud trees were also planted. And although Limestone Central students were not present for the planting of the trees, said Ramsey, the students will hopefully get to enjoy these trees for years to come.

Wednesday’s ceremony marks the 21^st year that the Board of Public Works has participated in the Arbor Day project, which was designed to teach children the value of planting and maintaining trees in their communities. Board of Public Works is a designated Tree Line USA utility, and is the only utility in the state of South Carolina with that designation. An Arbor Day Foundation program, Tree Line USA recognizes best practices in utility arboriculture. Board of Public Works earns its Tree Line USA designation by providing quality tree care, placing emphasis on tree-based energy conservation, educating the public on the value of caring for trees, and sponsoring tree-planting ceremonies throughout the community.