The community is invited to a celebration of trees Friday afternoon at War Hill Park on Lake Lanier.

The Dawson County Tree Preservation Committee, in conjunction with Keep Dawson County Beautiful and the local extension agency, will meet at 2 p.m. in honor of Arbor Day, held in Georgia on the third week of February each year.

Keeping with tradition, the groups also award individuals for their commitments to preserving the county's rich natural resources, specifically trees.

A red Maple tree will be planted in recognition of Dave Hinderliter, a longtime advocate for tree preservation locally and volunteer with Keep Dawson County Beautiful.

"Dave has done a lot for the tree preservationist committee for many years, and in recent months, he has not been able to do as much as he wants to," said Clark MacAllister, Dawson County extension agent. "We want to honor him and plant a tree near his house. War Hill Park is not too far away from where he lives."

Arbor Day has been celebrated in Dawson County for the last decade and is recognized annually with a proclamation by the local board of commissioners.

The proclamation is expected to be approved and read during Thursday's regular meeting.

"Trees are a renewable resource ... increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas and beautify our community," according to Commission Chair Mike Berg.

"We urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands," he said.