Members of the Arizona Community Tree Council visited Snowflake July 21 to “honor our commitment to the Arizona Community Tree Council and Tree City USA by planting a tree at Fredrickson Park,” said Bruce Mighton, arborist for the Town of Snowflake.

Ron Kemble is on the Arizona Community Tree Council board of directors representing the White Mountains, and was instrumental in bringing the board meeting to Snowflake. The committee rotates the site of its meetings around the state and in April worked with Mighton to schedule the July meeting in Snowflake.

“They came up as a favor to us and our commitment as a Tree City USA and a member of the Arizona Tree Council,” said Mighton. In May, Snowflake received its 15th award as a Tree City USA.

The board met, then visited Pioneer Park and Fredrickson Park, and stopped by the old Hazel Anderson homestead, where Mighton was able to save several of the old trees, including pecan trees and an elm that are more than 50 years old, and a black walnut tree that is approximately 60 years old. He also saved a large pear tree and an apricot tree that were on the property located on the northeast corner of Highways 77 and 277.

Mighton recalled that he planted an apple pod and it looked like nothing would happen with it, but over two years later it began growing. Sixteen years ago he transplanted it on the property and it is now a beautiful apple tree.

Beverly Babb, a member of the Arizona Community Tree Council, said that Snowflake is a beautiful community, and she was impressed with the trees and the green in the community.

Mighton said they were all very impressed with the many trees and the beautiful green lawns.

The tree program provides information and educates homeowners on how to properly select a tree and care for it.

Mighton said those visiting told him, “Snowflake has friendly people, great parks and they loved the grass.”