This Douglas Fir is one of three newly designated Heritage Trees being celebrated during Lake Oswego's Arbor Week festivities.

Oregonians take their trees seriously. Rather than devote one day in their honor as is done around most of the country on the last Friday of April, they take the first full week of April to celebrate the role trees play in our lives. Lake Oswegans have a variety of activities to choose from. It’s no wonder Lake Oswego has been recognized by the Tree City USA program.

●KIDS ART CONTEST.  Sponsored by Frog Pond Toys at 310 N. State Street, children are encouraged to turn in their “treerific” creations by April 26. Entry forms can be picked up at the toy store, City Hall (380 A Avenue), or the West End Building (4101 Kruse Way).

●HISTORIC TREE TOUR. Take a guided walking tour through the historic trees of the Glenmorrie neighborhood. Sunday, April 1, 2:00 p.m. Meet in the lower parking lot at George Rogers Park, 611 State Street.

●HERITAGE TREE DEDICATION. Three new trees will receive the Heritage Tree designation this year, including a 49-inch diameter Oregon white oak in East Waluga Park where the ceremony is being held. Tuesday, April 3 from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. at East Walulga Park, 15505 Quarry Rd.

●PLANT A TREE. Join the Evergreen Neighborhood Association as they plant trees at the intersection of 4^th St. and Evergreen. Wednesday, April 4 from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.   You’ll have another chance to help out the McVey-South Shore Neighborhood Association as they plant trees at the intersection of McVey and Laurel. Thursday, April 5 from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.

●WALK IN THE WOODS. Explore Springbrook Park and cheer on the Lake Oswego Junior High students as they plan native shrubs, ferns and trees. Friday, April 6 from 2:40 to 3:40 p.m.  Near the Sundeleaf  Drive entrance.

●LIBRARY CRAFT PROGRAM. Make a blossom tree branch and check out the tree-themed books on display. Saturday, April 7 between 10:30 a.m. to  1:00 p.m. Drop-in. Lake Oswego Library, 716 4th Street.

●WORKSHOP ON PROPER PRUNING. Learn the best way to prune trees and shrubs. Saturday, April 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. West End Building, 4101 Kruse Way. Call 503.635.0290 to sign up.

For a complete schedule of events, check out the Urban Forestry’s handout.

Where is your favorite tree in Lake Oswego? Leave a comment here.