CITY OF ROCHESTER
NEWS RELEASE
ROCHESTER NAMED TREE CITY USA BY THE ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION
(April 21, 2009) - Mayor Robert J. Duffy announced today that Rochester has been named a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Foundation to honor its commitment to community forestry. It is the 28th year Rochester has received this national recognition.
“It’s an honor to again be recognized by the Arbor Foundation as a leading community in regard to forestry,” Mayor Duffy said. “Trees are an integral part of the natural beauty and value of a city.”
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
Rochester met all four standards for the designation: having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
• Tree City USA honorees also recognize that trees promote healthier communities. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles.
• Trees moderate climate, conserve water and provide habitat for wildlife.
• Trees in urban areas reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings.
• Properly placed trees can increase property values, and buildings in wooded areas rent more quickly and tenants stay longer.
“A community, its elected officials and its citizens that provide needed care for its trees deserves recognition and thanks,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are a vital component of the infrastructure in our cities and towns, and they also provide environmental and economical benefits. Cities that are recognized with a Tree City USA designation go to great lengths to plan and care for the community forest.”
More information about Tree City USA can be found at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.
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News Media: For more information, contact Kamahria Hopkins at 428-6678.