Third annual run for the trees event

The Boone History Museums and the Iowa Arboretum are collaborating to provide a fun and healthy outdoor event called Run for the Trees on April 29 at 8 a.m. This fundraiser will include a 5K run or walk as well as a 1-mile family fun walk on the beautiful grounds of the Iowa Arboretum in honor of Arbor Day.

“This a wonderful event for people that are interested in running or walking with nature” said Mark Schneider, Executive Director of the Iowa Arboretum. “The arboretum grounds and trails are an amazing backdrop to the race.”

The Run for the Trees event will be unique in many ways. Participants will traverse well-maintained trails through a restored prairie and woodlands featuring century-old oaks and native wildflowers. Instead of a medal, each person crossing the finish line will receive a tree sapling to plant in honor of their accomplishment and support of the two hosting institutions.

Adventurous registrants are invited to participate in one of the four costume contests during the event. These will include the following categories: Dress Like Your Favorite Plant or Tree, Dress Like Your Favorite Historical Figure, How Green Can You Be, and Best Family Costume.

The run/walk portion of the event will conclude with an awards ceremony at 10 a.m., just before the Arboretum’s annual Arbor Day Celebration.  The celebration will include the planting of a tree by the mayor of Madrid, Dirk D. Ringgenberg. Other crafts and activities highlight the morning dedicated to trees. The Iowa Arborist Association will be hosting a tree climbing activity for children. There will be a balloon artist and temporary tattoo artist for the children also.