Jefferson city administrator Scott Peterson received the Outstanding Civic Leader in Urban Forestry award from the Iowa Urban Tree Council during the 34th annual Urban Forestry awards ceremony April 3 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.
Peterson, a city administrator for more than 20 years, worked in Glidden and Lake View before accepting his current role in Jefferson in July 2023. He has been involved in helping his communities to grow and establish successful urban forestry programs.
Peterson supported the Jefferson tree committee, doubling the number of trees planted. This increase has helped replace trees lost to Emerald Ash Borer and wind events. Peterson facilitated a partnership with local Kiwanis to ensure proper watering and young tree care for these additional trees.
“Scott Peterson is an outstanding example of an Iowa civic leader who enhances our forest resources through tree planting,” said Emma Hanigan, Urban Forestry coordinator with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. “His dedication will benefit the Jefferson community for future generations.”
