Arkansas lawmakers were vague when they adopted the “pine tree” on January 20, 1939. Did they really mean to recognize any pine species that grows in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, loblolly pines and short-leaf pines are very abundant, while slash pines and long-leaf pines are not very common. Loblollies and short-leafs can each grow to heights of more than one hundred feet. They can be found in Arkansas’ two national forests, the Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.
Below is a copy of Arkansas’ pine tree bill:
WHEREAS, Some of the States of the American Union have by resolution declared what should be their State Tree; and
WHEREAS, The State of Arkansas has not by proper Resolution of the General Assembly declared what shall be regarded as its State Tree; and
WHEREAS, The Pine Timber resources of Arkansas have, during its existence, been one of its greatest sources of wealth; and
WHEREAS, They are recognized as one of the most important determining factors in the State’s future and its economic and industrial position; and
WHEREAS, Pine Timber is one of the few renewable resources of the State; and
WHEREAS, Widespread interest is being taken in Reforestation, especially with reference to Pine Timber;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF THE FIFTY-SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ARKANSAS, THE SENATE THEREOF CONCURRING THEREIN, THAT THE “PINE TREE” BE DECLARED AND EVERYWHERE RECOGNIZED AS THE “STATE TREE” OF THE STATE OF ARKANSAS.
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