Staunton has once again been named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. This is the 22nd year the City has earned this award, thanks to its efforts to make the care and planting of trees a priority.
“If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time,” said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation, in a letter to the City. “Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, and energy use. Staunton is stepping up to do its part. As a result of your commitment to effective urban forest management, you are helping to provide a solution to these global challenges.”
Staunton achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
Trees provide multiple benefits to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.
Arbor Day Celebration
The City will host an Arbor Day celebration in conjunction with the annual Earth Day Staunton event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., April 21 at Gypsy Hill Park.
About the Tree City USA Program
The Tree City USA program was started in 1976 and is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.
About the Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. For more information on the Tree City program, visit arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.
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Chris Graham
