In 2024, three new Michigan communities joined the increasing number of cities, villages and townships to be certified as a “Tree City USA” community for their efforts to promote and care for public trees within the community. Tree City USA is one of Arbor Day Foundation's flagship programs celebrating communities that meet its standards for caring for and celebrating trees.
The City of Iron Mountain, City of Flushing and Village of Grand Beach are among 131 Michigan communities, 10 college campuses and seven healthcare campuses recognized through their respective programs for work accomplished during 2024. There were also 16 communities that received Growth Award recognition for going above and beyond. All recipients will be receiving their award materials in the coming weeks.
“Our Arbor Day Foundation Program participants have done an amazing job with their tree work this past year," said Lawrence Law, Michigan Department of Natural Resources urban forester and partnership coordinator. “This is my third year managing this program for Michigan, and it's great to talk to these communities and groups that want to do more and participate in these programs.”
The Tree City USA program recognizes cities and towns that demonstrate a strong commitment to urban forestry. To earn the Tree City USA title, a community must meet four core standards: maintain a tree board or department, have a community tree ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and hold an annual Arbor Day observance and proclamation. Receiving this award signifies that the community values its trees as vital infrastructure and is dedicated to maintaining a healthy, sustainable urban forest.
The 131 recognized communities mark a new record for the Michigan. As the 50th anniversary of Tree City USA approaches, it is important to take pride in the work our communities do and reflect on why we celebrate. Tree City recognition comes with years of work, dedication and participation for the enjoyment and benefit of current and future community members.
"The Arbor Day Foundation's and Michigan Department of Natural Resources' support for our communities is unwavering as we continue to empower our tree programs throughout the state," Law said. "This year was so successful, from continued interest of communities to recertification by communities formerly within the program and the addition of new communities. We thank and congratulate all awardees as we prepare to celebrate 50 years of Tree City USA."
To learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation’s various Tree USA programs, visit arborday.org/programs.
For questions on the DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry Program, contact Lawrence Law at 313-316-4137 or [email protected], or visit Michigan.gov/UCF.
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