Arbor Day Foundation Grant Helps Beautify Morrill Quad

WHAT:

Arbor Day Foundation Camellia Planting Ceremony - University of Maryland

WHEN:

Sunday, October 11, 2009, starting at 12:30 p.m.

WHERE:

Morrill Quad - University of Maryland

BACKGROUND:

Last March, the University of Maryland was recognized as a "Tree Campus USA" by the Arbor Day Foundation. As part of that recognition, the Foundation, along with sponsor Toyota, will be on campus Sunday for a special event on Morrill Quad to plant what will ultimately be 215 camellia plants paid for by the Foundation.

Historically, the quad had camellias (below left - 1935), and this event not only ties into Maryland history, but also seeks to increase the plant diversity on campus while providing an educational component for Maryland students. It is also being used to honor Dr. William Ackerman, a research horticulturist at the US National Arboretum for many years, who worked on the development of camellias with improved cold-hardiness.

The Arbor Day Foundation grant was secured through the efforts of Maryland's Homecoming Committee and is a student-volunteer driven effort to add to the beauty and sustainability of the campus landscape.  Maryland is just one of ten institutions of higher learning to receive funding for these plantings.

MEDIA:

Media coverage is welcome. Parking is available near Memorial Chapel.

CONTACT:

For more information, contact Dave Ottalini, 301-405-4076.

Where is the University of Maryland?

09173