Florida Forest Service supports Panama City

TALLAHASSEE — Today, State Forester and Director of the Florida Forest Service James "Jim" Karels celebrated Florida Arbor Day by planting trees on the Florida State University campus in Panama City, confirming a commitment to help reforest communities damaged by Hurricane Michael.

"Hundreds of communities in the Florida Panhandle have suffered devastating loss, resulting in significant damage to their economic and ecological resources," said Director Karels. "Reforesting these areas will take time, and we are committed to helping ensure the long-term success of the necessary recovery efforts."

Florida Arbor Day is about celebrating the benefits of trees in our state, including increased property values, tourism appeal, decreased storm water runoff, shade and energy conservation, prevention of soil erosion and improved air quality. The loss of tree cover due to Hurricane Michael has consequently diminished these benefits in Northwest Florida, where homes, communities and recreational activities are part of the wildland urban interface.

"I can’t think of a better organization to partner with in this endeavor than the Arbor Day Foundation. Their support brings hope to Floridians as they move forward with re-establishing their communities," said Karels.

More than 1,000 native tree species were given away free of charge to residents in Panama City and Marianna. Additional tree distribution events are planned in the eleven Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Michael in the coming years as communities are ready.

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Florida Forest Service supports Panama City