City Celebrates Arbor Day

The Arbor Day ceremony reminds the community of the importance of maintaining the city’s trees for economic, ecological, and aesthetic value. Since its beginning, the Tree City USA program has grown nationwide to be the leading community forestry recognition in the United States.

In order to be a Tree City, a community must meet four standards, including having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.

Along with those criteria, the tree cities also recognize that:
– Trees promote healthier communities. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles.
– Trees moderate climate, conserve water and provide habitat for wildlife.
– Trees in urban areas reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings.
– Properly placed trees can increase property values and buildings in wooded areas rent more quickly and tenants stay longer.

Visit http://www.arborday.org/ for more Arbor Day Foundation information.