On April 22, 2025, Morris County proudly celebrated the 55th anniversary of Earth Day by planting Eastern Redbud trees at Central Park in Morris Plains, marking the third consecutive year that local county commissioners, alongside representatives from Atlantic Health System and the Morris County Shade Tree Commission, have come together to honor this globally recognized event. The ceremonial planting took place at the corner of Ruth Davis Drive and John J. Murphy Way, just behind the county’s Department of Human Services Complex.
The partnership between Morris County and Atlantic Health Foundation has blossomed into a meaningful initiative that combines environmental stewardship with community engagement. This year, Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, joined by Carolyn Dancy, the Executive Director of Safety and Sustainability at Atlantic Health, Kris McMorland of the Shade Tree Commission, and Alexandra Cerasiello from U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill’s office, participated in the tree planting ceremony alongside other county officials, staff, and members of the Morris County Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Pi Theta Omega.
Earth Day 2025: A Celebration of Community Action
“Earth Day reminds us to take meaningful actions, big or small, to preserve and protect our planet,” said Commissioner Mastrangelo. “Morris County has a long tradition of protecting the environment, from preserving farmland and open space to maintaining the largest county park system in New Jersey. I’m proud to be part of this legacy.”
The theme for Earth Day 2025, “Our Power, Our Planet,” perfectly encapsulates the idea that individuals and communities, working together, can have a powerful collective impact on the health of our planet. The Morris County tree planting initiative is a testament to this theme, highlighting how local actions can contribute to global environmental efforts.
A Growing Tradition: Morris County’s Annual Earth Day Tree Planting
This year’s tree planting marks a special milestone in the ongoing partnership between Atlantic Health Foundation and the Morris County Shade Tree Division. The initiative began in 2023 when Carolyn Dancy reached out to the Shade Tree Division to explore the possibility of an annual tree planting event. Since then, the Atlantic Health Foundation has generously donated trees each year, with a focus on planting native species purchased from Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouse.
The first tree planting took place in 2023 at the Morris County Library in Whippany, followed by two more successful plantings in 2024 at the First Baptist Church/Our Place Day Shelter in Morristown and the Morris County Outreach Center on West Hanover Avenue near the Morris County 9/11 Memorial in Parsippany. Each planting has served as both a gift to the environment and a symbol of the collaborative spirit that defines Morris County’s approach to sustainability.
This Year’s Planting: A Commitment to Long-Term Growth
The planting of the Eastern Redbud trees at Central Park is not just a ceremonial gesture. It is part of a broader, sustained effort to improve the county’s natural environment, particularly its urban green spaces. This year, the Shade Tree Division worked diligently to prepare the site by removing two aging trees, grinding the stumps, and ensuring the soil was healthy enough to support new growth. In addition, the trees were carefully staked and stabilized to help them thrive in the long term.
“Morris County’s continued investment in tree planting reflects our broader commitment to open space, clean air, and public health,” said Kris McMorland, a member of the Shade Tree Commission. “Each tree planted is a step toward creating a healthier and more resilient environment for all who live here.”
The addition of these trees not only beautifies Central Park but also serves as an investment in the future. As trees mature, they will contribute to improved air quality, enhanced biodiversity, and provide natural shade that can reduce the urban heat island effect, which is an ongoing concern in many cities and suburban areas.
Morris County’s Legacy of Open Space Preservation
Morris County has long been a leader in open space preservation. With over 30 years of dedicated efforts, the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund has helped preserve over 14,750 acres of farmland, forests, and parks. This commitment to protecting the environment has also helped ensure that residents have access to green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
In recognition of this significant legacy, the Office of Planning & Preservation recently launched an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap© that highlights the history and impact of the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund. Since its inception in 1994, the Trust Fund has awarded more than $300 million in grants to preserve land across 37 of Morris County’s 39 municipalities. This preservation work is a testament to the county’s commitment to ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of Morris County’s open spaces.
Additional Earth Day Events: Paper Shredding for Sustainability
In addition to the tree planting, Atlantic Health System is hosting two free public paper shredding events to promote sustainability and reduce waste. On April 23, 2025, from 8 to 11 a.m., Morris County residents can bring their documents to be securely shredded at two convenient locations in Morristown: the West Parking Lot at 475 South Street and the Visitor Parking Garage (Parking Lot A) at Morristown Medical Center on 100 Madison Avenue. This initiative is part of Atlantic Health’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and community service.
Looking Ahead: Morris County’s Continued Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
The efforts to plant trees and preserve open spaces are just a few examples of how Morris County is making a lasting impact on environmental conservation. From local partnerships with organizations like Atlantic Health Foundation to long-standing programs like the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund, the county is committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable future for its residents.
As we reflect on this year’s Earth Day celebration, it’s clear that the small actions we take—whether it’s planting a tree, reducing waste, or simply being mindful of our surroundings—add up to meaningful change. Morris County is leading by example, showing that with collaboration and dedication, we can make a significant difference in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.
For more information about Morris County’s Earth Day tree planting and upcoming events, visit the Morris County Shade Tree Division’s website or follow them on social media for updates.
Explore New Jersey is proud to highlight local efforts that contribute to environmental sustainability and community well-being. As we continue to explore New Jersey’s commitment to the environment, we encourage everyone to take part in activities that support the planet, whether on Earth Day or every day. Let’s keep working together to preserve our natural world for future generations.
