The N.C. Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry program has announced the recipients of the 2024 Tree City USA, 2024 Tree Campus Higher Education, and 2025 Tree Line USA designations. This year, 69 communities, 12 campuses, and three utilities have been recognized for their achievements in urban forestry.
In addition, the communities of Charlotte, Concord, Davidson, Gastonia, and Wilmington have been awarded the Tree City USA Growth Award for 2024. The award honors communities that have already been designated as Tree Cities and recognizes their efforts in environmental improvement, higher levels of tree care, and robust community tree programs.
The Tree City USA program sets the standard for community forestry management. Communities achieve Tree City USA status by meeting four core standards of sound urban forestry management.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler highlighted the importance of these accomplishments, stating, “Planting trees and responsible urban forest management at the local level including community involvement and participation in urban forestry recognition programs are critical to sustaining healthy forest resources in North Carolina.” He commended the efforts of communities, campuses, and utility companies, noting their contributions to improving urban tree canopies, tree conservation, stormwater runoff reduction, and clean air and water. Troxler also encouraged others to join in these efforts.
Accredited colleges and universities have the opportunity to promote healthy trees and receive Tree Campus Higher Education accolades, while utility companies demonstrating sound utility pruning practices can earn Tree Line USA recognition. These distinctions highlight a balance between expanding utility needs and providing adequate care for urban forests.
The NCFS Urban and Community Forestry program is responsible for overseeing the application and award process for these designations. For more information on its programs and services, individuals can visit the N.C. Forest Service website. A complete list of this year’s recipients is available online.
