Oregon City has been named a “2022 Tree City USA” by the Arbor Day Foundation for the 11th year in a row.
Oregon City first earned the distinction in 2011, and has continued to hold that honor since. A community must meet several criteria set forth by the Arbor Day Foundation in order to be awarded with that title. A community must maintain a tree board or department, have a tree care ordinance, dedicate an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per resident and host an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
“Our trees and urban canopy are an integral part of Oregon City’s identity,” said Mayor Denyse McGriff. “We don’t just look at meeting those goals from the Arbor Day Foundation, we work to exceed them for the benefit of our community and its future,” she said.
The Mayor added that one of the criteria, maintaining a tree board, has been vital to the success of the City’s arboreal efforts. “The Natural Resources Committee does tremendous work in when it comes to planning for our urban canopy. I appreciate the effort this volunteer group continually puts in.”
Arbor Day Foundation chief executive Dan Lambe agreed that the investments that Oregon City makes in its trees is an investment in the future. “The trees being planted and cared for by Oregon City are ensuring that future generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education,” he said.
Mayor McGriff said the City will earn the distinction in years to come. “We continue to invest resources into our urban canopy. It’s a top priority of this Commission, and we hear from the residents that it is a top priority for them as well. We will continue this work to reflect that importance.”
The City’s Arbor Day tree planting ceremony for 2023 will take place at Chapin Park from 9 am to 12 pm on April 1.