For the seventh time, Hamilton Township has earned a national recognition for its commitment to effective urban forest management by being named a “Tree City USA” by the Arbor Day Foundation.
The Arbor Day Foundation, a non-profit conservation and education organization that seeks to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees, sponsors the “Tree City USA” program in partnership with the U.S Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.
Hamilton earned the honor by meeting a series of program requirements, which include having a township Shade Tree Commission, instating a tree-care ordinance and investing at least $2 per capita in community forestry efforts.
“One of the great things about Hamilton Township is that despite possessing a very large population, our community continues to enjoy a ‘small town feel’ due in part to our commitment to forestry, shade trees and through the preservation of our park and recreational areas,” said Hamilton Township Mayor Kelly A. Yaede. “It is an honor for our community to receive this national recognition for a seventh year and I look forward to continuing our forestry and shade tree-related efforts so that this time next year, Hamilton Township can celebrate receiving the ‘Tree City USA’ recognition for an 8th time.”
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, cleaner air, improved storm water management, energy savings, increased property values and commercial activity are among the benefits enjoyed by Tree City USA communities.
