Outdoor Matters
A column from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Certification requires each community to have the following: a tree board or responsible department, a community tree care ordinance, a commitment to spend an average of at least $2 per capita on tree-related activities, and an annual Arbor Day proclamation and observance.

Since it began, the program has helped America's communities expand and improve the health of their urban forests. The foundation's partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, the National Association of State Foresters, the National League of Cities, and the U.S. Conference of Mayors has further enabled the program to develop a nationwide network of communities that plan and maintain urban forests.

What started in 1976 with 42 communities in 15 states has grown to 3,270 communities nationwide today. Of these, 99% recertify annually. Collectively, these communities have 120,496,878 residents and spend $883 million on their urban forestry efforts.

Currently ninth among all states in total number of communities certified, Michigan's Tree City population includes 3,759,339 residents, whose communities spent nearly $31 million, or approximately $8 per capita, on tree care in 2006.

One question that Mr. Sayers gets often is: What is the benefit for a community that wants to become a Tree City?

"First, it helps communities establish a foundation for effective, well-organized tree care programs," he said. "Each community receives two Tree City USA signs, a flag and a plaque, and other education and marketing items."

But the real significance of these rewards, Mr. Sayers said, is that it helps create visibility for the program, which, in turn, often helps the community to create a positive public image and improved awareness.

"Each year, I hear from interested communities who would like to learn how to become a Tree City," Mr. Sayers said. "It's often because they have noticed a neighboring community was certified and they want the same recognition. They really just want to be involved."

Being involved is what it is all about, from the Arbor Day Foundation and U.S. Forest Service to local communities and their residents. This collaboration of nonprofit, government, and local citizen involvement is at the heart of making Tree City USA a powerful force for better community forests and tree care.

The next time you drive through a community with the Tree City USA sign or flag, you will know people are working to create a future for the community that is brighter and greener.

For more information about the program, visit the DNR Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnrucf or contact Kevin Sayers at (517) 241-4632.