Mesquite once again named a ‘Tree City USA’ by Arbor Day Foundation

For the 34^th consecutive year, the City of Mesquite has been named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation.

To be recognized as a Tree City USA community, cities must meet four requirements: maintain a tree board or department, have a tree-care ordinance, dedicate an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and host an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

"We are committed to maintaining a thriving urban forest because we know that trees raise the quality of life for our residents," said City of Mesquite Parks and Recreation Director Elizabeth Harrell. "We look forward to continuing to create a brighter, greener future for 34 more years and beyond."

Mesquite has planted more than 31,000 trees throughout the community since the inception of its Urban Forestry Program in 1988.

Started in 1976, the Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. More than 3,600 communities nationwide have earned the designation.

Dan Lambe, chief executive officer of the Arbor Day Foundation, commended Mesquite for its commitment to the value and importance of trees.

"If there was ever a time for trees, now is that time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-bring, energy use and extreme heat and flooding," he said. "Mesquite is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future."

To learn more about the Tree City USA program, visit www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.