Walking around the University of Pittsburgh campus, you can’t miss the expansive tree canopy, especially the collection of mature oaks, dawn redwoods, dogwood and more across the sprawling lawn around the Cathedral of Learning. This Arbor Day, celebrate the mighty giants around us with various activities.
Arbor Day 2026 Activities
Community members are invited to celebrate Arbor Day at Pitt with activities for everyone. Local nonprofit, Tree Pittsburgh will be giving guided tours to highlight just some of the various tree species found on campus, including tips on identification, ecological importance, and basic care tips. Spring Tree Tours are being held on April 16 at 12pm and 4pm.
Those looking to flex their creative side can stop by the Text & context lab and learn how to create a monoprint using leaves. This simple technique highlights the texture and shape of every individual leaf while creating a unique piece of art every time. Drop-in to leaf monoprinting on April 16 anytime between 1-6pm.
Did you know that trees can be used as determinants of health? Join Dr. Isabela Angelelli as she discusses how trees play a key role in community health, impacting health conditions including heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Sign up to join the discussion on April 16 from 3-4pm.
Year-Round Tree Activities
There is no need to wait for Arbor Day to come around to grow your tree knowledge.
Anyone can enjoy the self-guided Campus Tree Trek year-round. This leisurely walking route highlights 17 unique tree species on Pitt’s campus. Those walking with a smart phone can scan the QR code on a tree’s sign to learn even more facts and history about the species in front of them.
Those looking to get more hands on can also join Pitt’s Tree Tenders. Led in partnership with Tree Pittsburgh, the workshop teaches basic tree biology, proper tree care, urban forestry practices, and how to organize tree plantings and continual care in your own community. This certification is provided for free to Pitt community members, equipping participants with skills to help care for trees in Oakland and their home communities.
University Commitments
In addition to community involvement opportunities, Pitt also has tree care embedded into daily practices and future planning.
Facilities Management follows the Sustainable Landscape Design Guidelines when caring for the campus landscape. Most recently, the grounds team was able to partner with Boscage Tree Service to utilize groundbreaking technology to better assess the health and safety of older trees across campus.
Trees are also an important consideration in Pitt’s Campus Master Plan. One current project, Panther Overlook, involves transforming a steep hillside into a destination with a variety of tree species.
In recognition of Pitt’s outstanding commitment to protecting and enhancing local tree canopy, the University’s Pittsburgh campus has been certified as a Tree Campus since 2021.
Earth Month isn’t just about trees. Learn about Pitt’s many events, opportunities, and resources that will make your Earth Month special!