Tree planting events mark National Afforestation Day in Nigde and Ordu

Officials and students planted 3,500 saplings in Nigde on November 11 as part of National Afforestation Day activities held under the slogan "Breath for the Future, Peace for the World." The ceremony took place at the Hidirlik site along the Nigde-Adana highway.

Nigde Governor Nedim Akmesse attended with university rector Hasan Uslu, bar association head Emin Alper Ozturk, police chief Erdinc Yuceer, agriculture and forestry director Furkan Mete, protocol members, institution directors, and students. Governor Akmesse said afforestation protects the environment, beautifies the world, enriches Turkey's forest assets, and raises environmental awareness.

“If we want tomorrow not to be breathless, we must start by planting a sapling today.”

Akmesse stated that various afforestation activities are carried out throughout the year and that a special program was organized for this day. He said 3,500 saplings would be planted that day and that the province aims to plant a total of 500,000 saplings by 2026.

In Ordu, a similar event was held at the Ahmet Cemal Magden Nursing Home garden with the same motto. Ordu Forest Operations Director Omer Uzundal delivered the opening speech.

About 100 saplings, including linden, fig, cornelian cherry, plum, acacia, maple, blue cypress, and rose varieties, were planted in the nursing home garden. Governor Muammer Erol planted saplings together with nursing home residents and children.

Ordu plans to plant a total of 1,500 saplings across the province on National Afforestation Day.