Port Huron, MI — Trees make communities better. The cities of St. Clair, Marysville, and Port Huron have all been given the “Tree City USA” designation for 2020. The cities are recognized for their work in promoting and caring for trees in the community.
The honor went to 124 Michigan communities, nine college campuses, one hospital, and one utility: ITC. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources certifies the Tree City USA recipients.
Kevin Sayers, urban and community forestry specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, said, “Michigan ranks eighth nationally in the number of communities with Tree City designations.”
To earn the designation, organizations must have a city department or tree board, a public tree care ordinance, a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita, and a proclamation about and celebration of Arbor Day, which takes place April 30 this year.
Sayers said that trees help to cool sidewalks in the summer and clean the air. He said, “Michigan is still looking forward to seeing its first K-12 school become certified through the newest program, Tree Campus K-12. “
More information about getting certified with Tree City USA can be found at ArborDay.org/Programs.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
