HILL AIR FORCE BASE – Hill AFB has been named a Tree City USA for the 30th consecutive year, earning the designation from the Arbor Day Foundation.
To be named a Tree City USA, communities must meet four standards:
● Have a tree board or department that is responsible for the care of trees
● Have a tree-care ordinance that protects trees
● Spend at least $2 per capita on tree planting and maintenance
● Celebrate Arbor Day
Hill meets all four of these standards through its Natural Resources Program. The program manages the base's tree canopy, which includes more than 13,000 trees of over 100 different species. The program also conducts tree planting and maintenance activities throughout the year, along with hosting an annual Arbor Day celebration.
"We are proud to be a Tree City USA for the 30th consecutive year," said Col. Meghan Szwarc, 75th Air Base Wing deputy commander. "Our trees provide a number of benefits to the base community, including improving air quality, reducing stormwater runoff, and providing shade and beauty. We are committed to continuing to care for our trees so that they can continue to provide these benefits for many years to come."
The Tree City USA designation is important because it recognizes communities that are making a commitment to tree care.
Trees are also essential for mitigating the effects of climate change. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Hill’s commitment to tree care is an example for other communities to follow. By planting and maintaining trees, communities can improve their quality of life and help protect the environment.