The City of Frederick is excited to announce it has been named a 2020 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in recognition of its commitment to effective urban forest management. The City of Frederick holds the honor of being the longest-running recipient of the Tree City USA designation in the State of Maryland, with this the 40th consecutive year of recognition.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. Frederick 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.
“Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers, and committed citizens in communities like Frederick make smart investments in urban forests,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social, and environmental benefits.”
Trees are assets to a community when properly planted and maintained. Trees help 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.
"The City is excited to celebrate this milestone and continue growing its canopy to reach our goal of 40 percent," shared City Sustainability Manager, Jenny Willoughby. The City's Arborist, Josh Dunk, agreed. "As the new city arborist, I am excited to continue and expand this legacy. I look forward to celebrating with everyone at the next Arbor Day celebration in 2021!"
More information on the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.
