The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Forestry Bureau announced that the city of Jefferson received the 2013 Tree City USA award at the 24th annual Community Forestry Awards luncheon, held in Des Moines April 3.
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 Jefferson 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.”
Jefferson was one of 70 Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City USA status. To receive the award a city must meet minimum requirements: the city must possess either a city forester or an active city tree board; the city must have a tree ordinance; and the city must annually spend at least $2 per capita for its community forestry program.
Lynn Menz and Carole Fisher (center) accepted the award on behalf of the city and the tree committee. Pictured with them are Iowa Department of Natural Resources director Chuck Gipp (left) and state forester Paul Tauke (right).
