Arbor Day is observed annually as a time to celebrate the importance of trees and the many benefits we receive from them. The national observance of Arbor Day takes place the last Friday in April each year, while North Carolina observes Arbor Day the first Friday following March 15, so March 17 this year.

Applications are being accepted for three Urban and Community Forestry financial assistance programs. The funding program has been completely redesigned to streamline the application and award process. Local, tribal, and state government entities, not-for-profit profits and other tax-exempt organizations are eligible to apply.

The N.C. Forest Service is known for its role in emergency response, predominantly as the lead agency for the prevention and control of wildfires. However, our response goes far beyond the parameters of fire. Our personnel are trained to respond and support a wide variety of all-hazard emergencies such as winter storm events, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, search and rescue efforts, public health events and agricultural emergencies.

Education and outreach are critical parts of what we do to promote forestry across the state. Our staff conduct a variety of educational programs for school groups, civic organizations and the general public. Get a glimpse of education and outreach with the N.C. Forest Service in this snapshot from a facility tour at our Aviation Central facility located at Raleigh Executive Jetport in Sanford.

The N.C. Forest Service manages several state forests across North Carolina. Many of them are open to the public and offer a variety of educational and recreational experiences. Select the State Forests dropdown above to learn more about a state forest near you.