It is the 19th year Portsmouth has received the national recognition.
“We accomplish that by trying to take care of the trees that we have,” Portsmouth City Service Director Chris Murphy said.
“We have volunteer hours that go into maintenance and tree pruning and working within the different parks and recreational facilities, as well as down Chillicothe Street, and trying to just beautify our city by making the town a more tree-friendly place.”
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
“A community, its elected officials and its citizens that provide needed care for its trees deserves recognition and thanks,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are a vital component of the infrastructure in our cities and towns, and they also provide environmental and economical benefits. Cities that are recognized with a Tree City USA designation go to great lengths to plant and care for the community forest.”
The news release said, “Portsmouth has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community: having a tree board or department, a tree ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.”
The Arbor Day Foundation said in their news release: Communities that receive Tree City USA recognition not only have taken the time to meet the four standards, but recognize that:
• Trees promote healthier communities. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles;
• Trees moderate climate, conserve water and provide habitat for wildlife;
• Trees in urban areas reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings;
• Properly placed trees can increase property values, and buildings in wooded area rent more quickly and tenants stay longer.
Frank Lewis may be reached at (740) 353-3101 Ext. 232.
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