Town receives Tree City Growth Award

Brookhaven Town has for the fourth consecutive year been designated a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation, and in recognition of its ongoing successful tree programs, the town has this year also earned the Tree City Growth Award. Brookhaven spends over $1.4 million per year on community forestry programs.

“I am proud to have the town recognized as a Tree City USA,” said supervisor Ed Romaine. “We have given away and planted thousands of trees and strictly controlled the clearing of trees across Brookhaven to help protect and preserve the environment. I thank the Arbor Day Foundation for honoring the town and all the residents who have followed our lead to make Brookhaven a greener place to live.”

Tree City USA is a nationwide movement that provides the framework necessary for communities to manage and expand their public trees. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, benefits of a Tree City USA program include: reduce costs for energy, stormwater management and erosion control, cut energy consumption by up to 25 percent, boost property values across your community, and build stronger ties to your neighborhood and community.

The Tree City USA Growth Award is awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation to recognize higher levels of tree care by participating Tree City USA communities. The Growth Award highlights innovative programs and projects as well as increased commitment of resources for urban forestry. It also provides an opportunity to share new ideas and successes across the country. More information about the Arbor Day Foundation can be found at www.arborday.org.