NEBRASKA CITY – Nebraska City Tourism and Commerce announced winners of the 2026 Arbor Day awards.

The Arbor Day honoree is community organizer Doug Friedli, who is currently the director of the MRB Lewis and Clark center.

A press release describes Friedli as reflecting the spirit of J. Sterling Morton who is quoted to say children reared among trees and flowers – growing up with them – will be better in mind and heart.

Friedli is a business leader, church volunteer and member of several community organizations, including the trails committee.

The 2026 tree planter of the year is Ben Heusinkvelt, who works at both Kimmel Orchard and Arbor Day Farm.

NCTC says his enthusiasm for trees and commitment to educating others has encouraged tree planting throughout the region.

The Osage Orange trees at Arbor Lodge State Park win the 2026 prestigious tree award.

They are considered the oldest living trees within the state park.

Here is the NCTC press release by Krystl Knabe

NEBRASKA CITY -- As Nebraska City prepares to celebrate Arbor Day, the community is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Arbor Day Awards, recognizing individuals and landmarks that embody Nebraska City’s long-standing commitment to trees, history, and community.

The Arbor Day Honoree Award is given to an individual or group who has contributed their time and talents to making Nebraska City a better place to live. Recipients exemplify the spirit of J. Sterling Morton and his family through generosity, vision, compassion, and courage.
Past recipients have served Nebraska City through their workplace, volunteerism, leadership, or social activism.

The Tree Planter of the Year Award is presented to an individual or group who promotes tree planting, conservation, and care in the Nebraska City area.

^{The 2026 Arbor Day Honoree is Doug Friedli}
Doug has served Nebraska City in many roles and remains an active and engaged community member. In addition to being a respected business leader, he is a dedicated church leader and volunteer, serving on several committees and organizations, including the Trail Committee.
In his role at the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Doug has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to promoting the enjoyment of trees, nature, and history.
His commitment reflects the words of J. Sterling Morton, who believed, “Children reared among trees and flowers—growing up with them—will be better in mind and heart.”
Doug Friedli continues that vision through his dedication to preserving Nebraska City’s natural beauty and history—not just for today, but for the future.

^{The 2026 Tree Planter of the Year is Ben Heusinkvelt}
Nobody is more passionate about tree planting than Ben. Through his work at both Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard and Arbor Day Farm, Ben has developed an extensive knowledge of trees—especially apple trees—and has become a trusted resource for anyone interested in planting or caring for them.
Ben eagerly shares his passion every chance he gets, whether he is helping someone select the right tree, teaching proper planting techniques, or offering advice on pruning and long-term care.

His enthusiasm for trees and his commitment to educating others have helped encourage tree planting and conservation throughout the Nebraska City area.

The 2026 Prestigious Tree Award honors the historic Osage Orange trees located at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park.
These trees are believed to be the oldest living trees within Arbor Lodge State Historical Park.
Though many of the trees planted by the Morton family are more recognizable or visually striking, these trees hold a unique and important place in Nebraska City’s history. Dating back to the earliest years of Nebraska City, the Osage Orange trees are living reminders of the vision and determination of Nebraska City’s founders.
They represent the earliest roots of Arbor Day and stand as a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

“Each of these recipients represents the very best of Nebraska City,” said Amy Allgood. “Doug, Ben, and these historic trees each tell a piece of our story—one rooted in service, passion, and a love for this community. We are thrilled to celebrate the people and places that continue to make Nebraska City the birthplace of Arbor Day and such an extraordinary place to call home.”

The public is invited to attend a ceremonial tree planting honoring the 2026 Arbor Day award recipients on Wednesday, April 22, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Nebraska City Tourism & Commerce (806 1st Ave), with a reception to follow. Join us as we celebrate Nebraska City’s tradition of honoring trees and community. A full schedule of events and festival details can be found at: www.nebraskacity.com/events/arborday

Sandra A. (Nickel) Olsen

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