The Arbor Day Foundation named the Village of Silver Lake a 2024 Tree City USA in honor of its commitment to plant, grow, and maintain trees to benefit its community.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a global non-profit organization with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries since 1972. The Tree City USA program has recognized cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area for more than 40 years.
“We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like the Village of Silver Lake are leading the way,” said Michelle Saulnier, vice president of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities. We’re proud the Village of Silver Lake is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”
In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health. When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners.
When mulching a tree, make sure the root flare is visible and add no more than 3 inches of mulch.
“Silver Lake residents appreciate the mature trees we enjoy throughout the Village,” said Therese Dunphy, mayor of Silver Lake. “These trees enhance our streets as well as reduce stormwater runoff to our lakes and river.
“The Service Department provides excellent care of our street trees,” she added, “and the Shade Tree Commission provides helpful best practice management tips for residents to preserve and protect trees in their own yards.”
To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards including a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.
The Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
