Casa Grande Recognized as Tree City USA

Friday, May 3, 2013

Casa Grande Recognized as Tree City USA

April 30, 2013

Casa Grande was named a 2012 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban management. This is the 6th year Casa Grande has earned the national designation. Arizona State Forester Scott Hunt presented the City with the award on Friday, April 26 at the state capitol in Phoenix.

In order to be considered a Tree City USA community, cities must have a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, a tree board/department and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Casa Grande Parks Division partners with many community groups in order to maintain the 2,300 trees located in parks and rights of way. Volunteer groups include the Casa Grande Valley Daughters of the American Revolution and youth who assist in tree maintenance as part of their Eagle Scout project. Last year, city staff trimmed over 650 trees.

Cleaner air, improved storm water management, energy savings and increased property values and commercial activity are among the benefits enjoyed by Tree City USA communities.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, USDA Forest Service, and the National Association of State Foresters. To learn more about the program, visit www.arborday.org/treecityusa

Pictured, from left to right: Bill Schwind (Community Services Director), Scott Hunt (State Forester), Alix Rogstad (Program Manager for the State Forestry Division), Anita Avila (Management Analyst) and Rod Wood (Parks Superintendent).