PORTAGE, Mich. — The City of Portage celebrated Arbor Day a few days early this year.
Community members, including students from both Portage Central and Portage Northern high schools, were at city hall Monday to participate in a ceremonial tree planting.
This year’s tree planting was especially significant. A large and mature maple tree that stood on the grounds at city hall for decades was lost to the May 7, 2024 tornado.
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However, during Monday’s event, community members planted a new red maple — which is native to Michigan. The city said the new maple will serve as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship…