City of Talladega Blog

(Talladega, AL) The City of Talladega held its 17th annual Arbor Day observance at the Spring Street Recreation Center on March 5, 2025.

"In conjunction with its role as a designated Tree City USA community, Talladega plants a tree for Arbor Day each year. This year, we planted an October Glory Maple," said Community Appearance Director Derrick Pointer, who has participated in each of the city's 17 Arbor Day ceremonies. 

“Talladega is proud to be a Tree City USA community, and we look forward to continuing and expanding our Arbor Day ceremony,” said City Manager Derrick Swanson. “Next year, the Alabama Forestry Commission plans to hold its annual tree giveaway during the celebration, which will encourage more community members to plant trees.”

Alabama Forestry Commission Urban & Community Forestry Partnership Coordinator  Katie Wiswall added, "I am so proud of Talladega for maintaining its status as a Tree City for 17 years.  The city does its part by planting trees on public property, but we also need community members to plant trees on private property.  It takes all of us working together."

"I look forward to making even more people aware of the importance of planting trees by having a tree giveaway during next year's ceremony," Wiswall said. 

Arbor Day is a day to reflect on the vital role that trees play in our world. Trees take in carbon dioxide, release oxygen, prevent soil erosion, conserve water, beautify communities and provide food and shelter for humans and animals.

Pictured left to right: Mayor Ashton Hall, Community Appearance employee Glenn Berryhill, Alabama Forestry Commission Urban & Community Forestry Partnership Coordinator  Katie Wiswal, Community Appearance Director Derrick Pointer, City Manager Derrick Swanson, Council President Betty Spratlin, Parks and Recreation Director Summer Ammons, Water and Sewer Department Director Cathy Fuller, Fire Chief Danny Warwick, firefighter Devon Ragsdale and firefighter Tommy Ferguson.