FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 22, 2026
Contact:
Madison Hardy
Janessa Tolman
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Angus King (I-Maine) introduced a resolution designating April 24, 2026 as Arbor Day. The resolution promotes productive forests and encourages the planting of trees across the U.S.
“Idaho is the poster child for how effective, active forest management improves forest health, supports conservation, and reduces the risk of catastrophic wildfire,” said Risch. “As a trained forester and longtime supporter of our public lands, I am proud to once again partner with Senator King to celebrate Arbor Day.”
“Maine’s people have deep roots in the expansive forest economy found throughout our state,” said King. “As the state with the highest percentage of forest coverage, Maine’s trees offer us everything from the syrup on our pancakes, to the clean air we breathe and the over 14,000 jobs in the forest products industry. I’m proud to join Senator Risch and the Working Forest Caucus in recognizing today as Arbor Day and ensuring the preservation of our forests for generations to come.”
Risch and King are joined by Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.)
Last year, Senator Risch introduced legislation to grow the forestry workforce and successfully blocked a provision that would have allowed the sale of public lands to the highest bidder.
Forests are core to Idaho’s economy and quality of life. In December, Idaho’s forest products will play a role in the America 250 celebration as the 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas tree, which will be selected from the Nez Perce National Forest.
About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
