EPS plants 125 trees to commemorate 125th anniversary

The Edmonton Police Service is planting 125 trees on its 125th anniversary to recognize its roots in the community and to share a legacy of hope for the future.

 

The trees are being planted by police officers and school children taking part in the City of Edmonton’s annual Arbor Day activities at Gold Bar Park. 

 

This is the first time EPS and the City have partnered for Arbor Day, which dates back to 1893 in Edmonton.  The trees planted on Arbor Day will provide numerous environmental benefits and be enjoyed by Edmontonians for years to come.

 

“Planting a tree together is a symbol of hope for the future,” says Chief Rod Knecht.  “We look back at the last 125 years with pride, and look forward to the next 125 years with promise, knowing that a strong and positive relationship with the community is at the heart of everything we do.  Much like these trees, we hope this relationship will continue to flourish for generations.”    

 

 

EPS is also planting an Autumn Blaze Maple Tree with a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion, as the tree is a symbol of promise for the future.

 

Over 600 grade one students from across the city are planting tree seedlings with members of the EPS School Resource Officer Unit.  For many it is their first time interacting with police officers, so the EPS Canine Unit is doing demonstrations and giving out EPS colouring books, crayons, stickers and play police badges to make the experience more memorable.

 

Chief Knecht adds, “I’m encouraged by these children, they’re aware of their community and the environment, and want to help out and do the right thing.  If these are our future leaders and police officers, we’re in good hands.”

  

 

The commemorative tree planting is one of the many public activities planned to celebrate the EPS’ 125^th anniversary in 2017, which include a civic celebration at City Hall on June 20 and a picnic at Borden Park on Aug. 20.

 

EPS was created 125 years ago when Mayor Matthew McCauley issued Bylaw #15 on June 20, 1892, which allowed the municipality to appoint town constables to keep the peace.  Since that time, EPS officers have been dedicated to protect, and proud to serve, the citizens of Edmonton. 

 

For more information and regular updates regarding the 125^th anniversary, please visit http://ift.tt/2iI7pTt.  If you have any historical information, photos or artifacts that you wish to share with the EPS, please contact the EPS 125th Anniversary Organizing Committee at EPS125@edmontonpolice.ca.

from Media Releases http://ift.tt/2q79NKn