Events

In honor of Arbor Day, the Southwest Michigan Landscape Association (SWMLA) will plant a native Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) at Portage City Hall on Friday, April 25, at 4 PM. The public is invited to attend the planting and join in recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship and urban reforestation.

"Arbor Day is a tradition we hold close," said Bruce Snyder of Gull Lake Landscape Co. "As Green Industry professionals, we take pride in contributing to the health and beauty of our communities – not just through our work, but through collective action. Planting this tree is a way to give back and demonstrate our commitment to reforestation, especially following the devastating tornado that impacted so many trees in Portage."

The Eastern Redbud, native to Michigan, is a small flowering tree known for its early spring blossoms and wildlife value. Its planting at City Hall will contribute to Portage’s ongoing effort to rebuild the city’s tree canopy following widespread storm damage earlier this year. The tree and all materials needed for planting will be provided by SWMLA members, who will gather for the ceremony in a show of unity and environmental care.

About the Southwest Michigan Landscape Association:

A Chapter of the Michigan Landscape Association, SWMLA was established more than 80 years ago to support Green Industry professionals throughout southwest Michigan. Today, the organization includes nearly 100 members from Calhoun, Barry, Kalamazoo, Allegan, Van Buren, Berrien, Branch, St. Joseph, and Cass counties. Members include landscape designers, contractors, nurseries, irrigation specialists, sod and Christmas tree farmers, golf course managers, and other Green Industry suppliers. Many businesses are multi-generational and remain active in SWMLA decades after their founding.