I remember going to the Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City, Neb., as a kid with my family. Besides lots of trees, my memory is a little foggy on what the entire farm includes. They have a website so, I don’t have to tell you about it, you can see for yourself.

But I wasn’t just reflecting on Nebraska City this morning, even though I drive by it frequently on my way to Lincoln, Neb., to see someone. :) Today around most of the country is Arbor Day! I say most of the country because some states have a different day to celebrate based on optimal tree planting times.

Arbor Day is celebrated across the United States to encourage tree planting and to remind us of the goodness they provide. The Arbor Day Foundation was started 135 years ago by J. Sterling Morton and continues spreading the word about planting trees.

You might not be able to plant a tree today, but they have other ways you can celebrate, such as learn about trees or go for a hike to enjoy the outdoors.

Trees are a good reason to celebrate, too! The U.S National Forest Service says that on average, for every dollar spent a year maintaining trees has a payback of $2.70. These benefits come from cleaner air from carbon and pollution absorption, reduced energy costs from the shade and reduced water runoff. Pretty handy I would say. So thank you trees and all the people who plant them.

If you want to see how much your trees payback, use the National Tree Benefit Calculator.