City of Linden to become a Tree City USA community

The City of Linden is looking to become the first Tree City USA community in Northeast Texas. At the regular October City Council meeting, the City Council decided to pursue certification, following more than 3,400 communities that have made the commitment to becoming a Tree City USA. To achieve Tree City USA status, you must meet four core standards of sound municipal forestry management: maintaining a tree board or department (the City of Linden’s Park’s Department will be in charge of this program), having a community tree ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and celebrate Arbor Day (we will celebrate Friday, November 4th). After our Arbor Day celebration, we should receive our certification by December.

Benefits of the Tree City USA Program

The Tree City USA program provides direction, assistance and national recognition for your community. It’s the framework for a healthy, sustainable municipal forestry program in your community. And the benefits are substantial.

• Reduce costs for energy, stormwater management, and erosion control. Trees yield 3–5 times their cost in overall benefits to the city.

• Cut energy consumption by up to 25%. Studies indicate that as few as three additional trees planted around each building in the United States could save $2 billion annually in energy costs.

• Boost property values across your community. Properly placed trees can increase property values from 7–20%. Buildings in wooded areas rent more quickly, and tenants stay longer.

• Build stronger ties to your neighborhood and community. Trees and green spacesdirectly correlate to greater connections to neighbors.

• Honor your community and demonstrate your commitment to a healthier environment through Arbor Day celebrations and Tree City USA recognition.

• Benefit from a framework for action provided by the four core standards. Many communities use the Tree City USA standards as a way to begin caring for city trees. Others regularly enhance urban forest management through improved ordinances, innovative programs and increased emphasis on planting and care.

• Educate people living in your city about the value of trees and the importance of sustainable tree management. Annual participation as a Tree City USA community provides this opportunity and makes it easier to engage individuals and organizations throughout the city. Tree City USA status can also create a strong working relationship with your state forestry agency and other groups.

• Improve community pride. Participation in the Tree City USA program helps residents feel good about the place they live and work. Annual recognition shows visitors and prospective residents that trees, conservation, and the environment are important to your community.

• Gain publicity with recognition materials. Tree boards, parks departments, public works officials, and volunteers are recognized for the valuable work they provide to the community.

Many communities share their Tree City USA recognition across city departments as well as with elected officials, students, and business leaders.