University of Nevada, Reno Extension is inviting the public to celebrate Arbor Day at its Botanic Gardens, located at 8050 Paradise Road.

On April 26, from 10 a.m. to noon, attendees will have the opportunity to speak with and learn from arborists and Extension’s Master Gardeners, tour the Botanic Gardens, and observe the planting of a ‘Sonoran Emerald,’ which is a new cultivar of palo verde that is being donated by Arizona Wholesale Growers. At the conclusion of the event, one individual will be selected from the registered attendees to receive a prize donated by Star Nursery.

“I am excited to add this tree to our gardens because it has a distinctive bright green bark and is a stronger, more wind-resistant cultivar compared to other palo verdes,” Lauren McGue, Extension Botanic Garden manager, said. “People may want to consider this tree for their yards because it is known to outperform other palo verde cultivars in appearance and sturdiness in Arizona.”

The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required, as space is limited. For more information, contact McGue at 702-940-5432.

Partners for this event include the Southern Nevada Arborist Group and the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture.

Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.