For the 11th year in a row, the City of Dunwoody is being recognized as a “Tree City USA” for its commitment to core standards of sound urban forestry management. Dave Long, Urban and Community Forestry Specialist with the Georgia Forestry Commission, will join City leaders to celebrate the designation with a ceremonial tree planting on Georgia Arbor Day, February 17.
“As a city, we’re demonstrating our commitment to trees in a new way by participating in the Front Yard Tree Planting Program,” said Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch. “Led by Trees Atlanta, the program gives residents a chance to sign up to have shade trees planted in their front yards at no cost to them. Last year was our first year, and the response was swift and enthusiastic. We ‘sold out’ within days. We look forward to continuing the program this year.”
Tree City USA provides the framework for community forestry management in cities and towns nationwide that meet certain requirements, including specific spending levels for urban forestry and planned Arbor Day celebrations. Since 2013, the City of Dunwoody has worked with Trees Atlanta and community volunteers to plant more than 2,000 trees in Dunwoody, including 107 during this year’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.
Due to Georgia’s ideal winter tree planting season, the third Friday in February is designated annually as Arbor Day in Georgia. The City of Dunwoody will celebrate on February 17 with the ceremonial planting of a Golden Rain Tree at 11 a.m. at the Dunwoody Cultural Arts Center near the Dunwoody Library. Representatives from the Dunwoody City Council, Dunwoody Parks & Recreation, Dunwoody Community Development and members of the Dunwoody Sustainability Committee will gather for the planting. Members of the community are also invited to join the celebration.
“We are committed to protecting our tree canopy and demonstrating what it means to be a Tree City,” said City of Dunwoody Arborist Amy Bledsoe. “Trees provide so many benefits to our community. They increase property values, reduce stress levels and provide wildlife with important habitats.”
PHOTO: Dunwoody Community Development Director Richard McLeod poses with Dunwoody Arborist Amy Bledsoe holding the Tree City USA flag
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