When the Dawson County facilities staff planted a Willow Oak Tree at Rock Creek Park for the annual Arbor Day celebration last Friday, they had no idea the tree they planted would be dedicated in their honor.

“They take care of our trees and make sure they live and prosper,” said Dave Hinderliter, chairman of the Dawson County Tree Preservation Committee, as he addressed a crowd during the ceremony. “It’s been an honor to work with them.”

The tree committee, in conjunction with Keep Dawson County Beautiful, names a tree preservationist of the year annually.

Other recipients include Jim Kinsey with Kinsey Family farms, who donates a tree each year for the event, the Dawson County Woman’s Club, which works throughout the year on gardens they created at the park, Ben Overstreet, the Dawson County Humane Society and George David.

This year, Hinderliter said the committee wanted to honor the facilities staff for all they do to make the park so inviting and beautiful for the community.

“We thank you for taking care of our trees,” Hinderliter said.