The first tree planting of this project took place at the 33rd annual Arbor Day Celebration at College Park Elementary School on April 12. The remaining trees are being planted this month, an ideal time for tree planting in the region. 

Curious about other native species that are ideal for planting in lawns or open areas? View the Native Tree Species list for Virginia Beach compiled by the City arborist. 

With the start of every year comes a big decision: what will be your New Year's resolution?! This year, try setting a green resolution for yourself. Simple changes can go a long way, so here are five easy examples that you could incorporate into 2014. 

I resolve to...

1. Use a reusable shopping bag EVERY time. Stash them in your car, in your purse, at the office and in your house and remember to take them with you!

2. Buy more local food. Enjoy the freshest produce and help protect the environment since your food didn't have to travel far to get to you.

3. Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). CFLs last longer than traditional bulbs and use about 75% less energy. 

4. Use cloth napkins. You'll not only save money in the long-run, but you'll cut down on the amount of paper towels that end up in landfills every day.

5. Ditch the disposable cup. Whether you stop for coffee on your way to work, or fill up at the office, bring your own tumbler or mug. You'll reduce waste and often get a discount on your coffee purchase!

For the past 30 years, Parks and Recreation's Landscape Management Division has hosted a wreath making event in partnership with The Council of Garden Clubs of Virginia Beach. In early December, members of various garden clubs come together to create the wreaths that will deck the doors of many of our City buildings. The greenery and other plant material used is carefully collected from city sites by our Landscape Management crew members. This year, a record 78 Garden Club members showed up to expertly craft the beautiful wreaths that adorn buildings at the Municipal Center and other notable sites including the Lynnhaven House, Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library, the Old Coast Guard Station, and the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art.

January 24-26, 2014 | Princess Anne Recreation Center    

Registration for the 2014 Winter Wildlife Festival began in November and several excursions have already reached capacity. Don't miss this opportunity to observe winter wildlife alongside experienced instructors in places like Back Bay and False Cape, Pleasure House Point, Mackay Island, Whitehurst Tract, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel area and more! Many sessions are offered at no cost and simply require advance registration. 

In addition to the outdoor excursions, the event features free educational workshops, children's activities and an exhibit hall at Princess Anne Recreation Center. The Festival Kick-Off takes place on Friday, January 24 with keynote speaker, Noah Strycker, Associate Editor of Birding magazine, well-known writer and "bird man." Check the festival website for details of all event activities.   

How to Register

Registration is available online through EZreg (with your client barcode & family PIN), in-person at any Virginia Beach Recreation Center, or by mailing in a registration form.  

Love Virginia Beach Parks & Rec? Get even more of what you love by following us on Facebook! You'll learn about upcoming events in the parks and recreation centers, view our latest photos and videos, and stay informed about upcoming facility closures. We also welcome your questions and feedback to let us know how we're doing. Check us out at Facebook.com/VBParksRec. 

Bow Creek Recreation Center is closed for a long-term modernization project. 

Don't forget that your membership is good at all Virginia Beach Recreation Centers! If your usual center is closed for maintenance, take the opportunity to visit another center. Use this locator to help you find one!