Tree City USA

Abstract

Trees make a world of difference in communities: the difference between sandy, dirty lots and shaded parks for baseball, picnics, and quiet walks; and between steamy, sun- baked streets, and friendly, shady neighborhoods. Trees help conserve energy, give wildlife a home, and increase property values. They also clean the air we breathe, hold the topsoil, and keep rivers running clear. But trees do not just happen. Communities need to plant trees and provide for their care. The Tree City USA program provides incentive to communities to plant and care for trees. Tree City USA can provide benefit to a community regardless of its size and the current status of its community forestry program.