DES MOINES, IOWA (IDALS) — Iowa kicked off its America250 celebration with a tree planting at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on Arbor Day.
State leaders, including Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, gathered to plant a Bur Oak, marking the state’s official America250 tree.
The event also launched a broader initiative to plant 250 trees in communities across Iowa, led by Iowa 4-H and Iowa FFA.
Naig says the effort is meant to go beyond a single ceremony.
“Today’s planting is about more than just putting a tree in the ground. It’s a reminder that small actions today can grow into something meaningful for generations to come.”
The project highlights the role of young people in agriculture and community leadership, with 4-H and FFA members taking the lead on planting efforts statewide.
Mitchell Hoyer, Director and State 4-H Program Leader, says the initiative builds on a long tradition of service.
“For more than 125 years, 4-H members have strengthened their communities through hands-on service, and today’s event is another example of that legacy in action.”
FFA leaders say the project also reflects the organization’s mission of hands-on learning and community impact.
Shannon Latham, Executive Director of the Iowa FFA Foundation, says the tree planting connects directly to that purpose.
“Planting a tree for America’s 250th allows us to honor the past while living the FFA motto.”
The Iowa State Fairgrounds was chosen as the site because of its long-standing role as a gathering place for agriculture and community in the state.
Organizers say the tree will remain as a lasting symbol of the celebration.
