More than a dozen community members gathered in Wessington Springs City Park on May 31 for 'A Walk in the Park,' an educational tree identification tour hosted by the Wessington Springs Tree City USA Committee. Led by Wessington Springs High School Vo-Ag instructor Brady Duxbury, participants learned how to identify common tree species found in the park and throughout the community, including maple, elm, bur oak, ash and eastern red cedars.
During the tour, Duxbury discussed the growing threat of the emerald ash borer and encouraged a proactive approach to tree management and replacement.
'If I were in charge, I'd be cutting down ash trees and planting new varieties,' Duxbury said. 'Diversity is the name of the game.'
Participants also learned about the characteristics of native tree species, proper tree selection and the importance of maintaining diversity. The free event was organized in recognition of Wessington Springs' Tree City USA designation and Arbor Day observances.