USC Aiken Plants Dogwood on Arbor Day

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AIKEN, SC (12/27/2018) Just before exams, students at the University of South Carolina Aiken observed the state's Arbor Day by planting a Cherokee Chief Dogwood, in the center of the traffic center, outside the Etherredge Center.

"Here, the campus community and guests, especially those going to the Etherredge Center or to housing, will enjoy the gorgeous blooms in the spring and the spectacular colors in the fall," said Jeff Gattis, building and grounds manager who is in charge of landscape designs and plans on campus.

Since 1934, South Carolina has observed Arbor Day in December when trees are dormant and when more rain is forecasted.

"Arbor Day marks the beginning of tree planting season," according to the S.C. Forestry Commission website.

"Climate determines when this is in any given area. South Carolina's planting season begins in December and ends in mid-March."

Earlier this year, USC Aiken once again earned Tree Campus USA recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation. This program recognizes those institutions that promote healthy trees and enrolls the campus community, including faculty, staff, and students in its conservation efforts.