ROCHESTER  — Trees were in the spotlight as Rochester observed Arbor Day with a ceremony Friday, May 20 at the Council on Aging.

Matt Monteiro, president of the Rochester Land Trust, thanked Tree Warden Jeffrey Eldridge for planting a variety of trees around the center, including blue spruce, Emerald City tulip, Winter King green hawthorn, and rhododendron shrubs.

This will ensure “a lovely view in every season,’’ he said.

Rochester once again received the Tree City USA award for 2021. The town takes pride in being a community that recognizes the value of trees, Monteiro said.

“'Tree City USA communities benefit from the positive effects that an urban tree canopy has year after year," said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, in a statement. "The trees being planted and cared for by Rochester ensure that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program helps cultivate a sense of stewardship and pride for the trees the community plants and cares for."

Residents were encouraged to plant trees and support efforts to protect trees and woodlands.