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Tree City USA

Tree City USA is a national recognition program that celebrates cities and towns committed to growing and maintaining their urban forest. The program began in 1976 and is one of the Arbor Day Foundation’s oldest initiatives. It’s co-sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service, National Association of State Foresters, National League of Cities, and U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Being a Tree City USA community brings valuable benefits:

  • Promotes long-term tree care and planting programs
  • Engages citizens and volunteers in urban forestry
  • Encourages adoption of a community tree ordinance
  • Supports tree stewardship and environmental education
  • Enhances community livability and visual appeal
  • Can improve success in grant applications
  • Celebrates Arbor Day and promotes its values
  • Helps attract business and economic development

How to Qualify

To be recognized as a Tree City USA, communities must meet four core standards:

  • Maintain a tree board or department responsible for tree care
  • Adopt a tree care ordinance
  • Invest at least $2 per capita in community forestry annually
  • Celebrate Arbor Day with an official proclamation and observance

How to Apply

Communities must apply annually to maintain or earn Tree City USA status. Applications are due by December 31. Applicants need to submit:

  • Contact info for your mayor and tree board
  • Your current tree ordinance
  • Forestry budget and activity details (trees planted/pruned/removed)
  • Copy of your Arbor Day proclamation and evidence of celebration
  • A copy of your annual forestry work plan

Steps to Become a Tree City USA

  1. Form a local Tree City committee – Include city leaders, utility reps, educators, local businesses, and community groups.
  2. Develop a tree ordinance – It should assign responsibility for public trees and outline planting, maintenance, and removal policies.
  3. Promote awareness – Host workshops, plantings, and educational events.
  4. Present the ordinance to local officials – Share the benefits of becoming a Tree City and be prepared to answer questions.

Responsibilities of a Tree Board or Department

  • Coordinate urban forestry efforts and public education
  • Hold regular meetings and maintain clear procedures
  • Help meet Tree City USA standards annually
  • Oversee Arbor Day planning, forestry budgets, and outreach

Resources

Tree Campus Higher Education

Tree Campus Higher Education is a recognition program from the Arbor Day Foundation that honors colleges and universities committed to healthy campus forests and student engagement in urban forestry. The program supports sustainability goals while strengthening community ties and fostering environmental stewardship.

Benefits of Participation

  • Enhances campus sustainability efforts and reduces carbon impact
  • Engages students in hands-on learning and service projects
  • Provides a framework for proactive tree management and long-term planning
  • Boosts campus aesthetics and wellness with increased green space

Program Requirements

To qualify, institutions must meet five core standards:

  • Establish a Campus Tree Advisory Committee
  • Develop and implement a Campus Tree Care Plan
  • Dedicate annual expenditures for tree-related programs
  • Hold an Arbor Day observance
  • Organize a student-led service learning project

Applications must be submitted annually by December 31 through the Tree Campus Higher Education Portal. Renewal requires documentation of committee activities, budget, Arbor Day celebration, and student involvement.