Iowa City receives Tree City USA award

News release from the city of Iowa City:

The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Forestry Bureau are proud to announce that the City of Iowa City has received the 2011 Tree City USA award 22nd Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon, held at the Stoney Creek Inn, Johnston on April 17, 2012.

State Forester Paul Tauke commented, "The Tree City USA award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees." The City of Iowa City has provided an outstanding example for other Iowa communities, by enhancing our forest resources and demonstrating the great value of trees in providing multiple benefits for future generations.

Iowa City was one of 86 Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City USA status. To receive the award a city must meet four minimum requirements: 1) The city must possess either a city forester or an active city tree board, 2) The city must have a tree ordinance, 3) The city must annually spend at least $2 per capita for its community forestry program.