CLARKSVILLE, Tennessee — The city of Clarksville has again been recognized as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, earning the designation for the 37th consecutive year for its urban forestry work.
The foundation also awarded Clarksville the Tree City USA Growth Award for the 21st straight year, citing the city’s continued investment in tree care and environmental improvement.
The recognition comes as the Tree City USA program marks its 50th anniversary, according to a letter sent to Mayor Joe Pitts by Dan Lambe, the Arbor Day Foundation’s chief executive.
Clarksville qualified for Tree City USA status by meeting the program’s four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, adopting a tree care ordinance, budgeting at least $2 per capita annually for community forestry, and observing Arbor Day with an official proclamation.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. The foundation promotes urban trees as community assets, citing benefits that can include improved neighborhood appearance, higher property values, lower cooling costs, reduced air pollution and added wildlife habitat.
