ARROYO GRANDE, CALIFORNIA – Arroyo Grande was named a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management. The City Council issued an honorary proclamation at its April 11, 2023, regular meeting, urging all citizens to celebrate “Arbor Day”, to support efforts to care for trees and woodlands.
Arroyo Grande achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community
forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. This marks the 41st year that the City has been identified as a Tree City USA.
"Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand," said Dan Lambe, Chief
Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "The trees being planted and cared for by Arroyo Grande are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it's through volunteer engagement or public education."
In support of Arbor Day the City planted a tree at Elm Street Park with help from an excited class of preschoolers. City Public Works staff took the opportunity to explain why trees are important and asked the preschoolers to help with planting and watering the new tree.
Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, and extreme heat and flooding. Arroyo Grande is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future.
For more information, visit www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.
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CONTACT INFORMATION:
Bill Robeson, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works
805-473-5466