GRANTS PASS – Since 1994, Oregon Community Trees (OCT) and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) have publicly recognized individuals, communities, and organizations in the state who demonstrate outstanding accomplishments and leadership in urban and community forestry.
This year, OCT and the ODF have selected the City of Grants Pass from the state’s 67 Tree City USA communities as the Oregon Tree City of the Year. The special recognition will officially be presented to the city at a future city council meeting.
“The annual Oregon Urban & Community Forestry Awards Program celebrates Oregonians who understand that healthy urban and community forests foster thriving communities,” said Samantha Wolf, president of Oregon Community Trees.
Only Oregon cities that hold in good standing the national Arbor Day Foundation status, Tree City USA, are considered for this special Oregon Urban & Community Forestry Award.
“Over the past 32 years, the City of Grants Pass has grown their urban forestry program. The City of Grants Pass has shown that it is dedicated to being a steward of their urban forest and to the development of a diverse, healthy tree canopy throughout its city limits,” said Wolf.
This year, the city achieved its ninth Tree City USA Growth Award. With the achievement of one more Growth Award, the city will reach Sterling Tree City USA status.
“The City’s actions provide a great example of Urban and Community Forestry leadership that exists in our state,” Wolf said.
Chad Westbrook, certified arborist, and Tony Mecum, urban forester for the city, were instrumental in the city’s achievement, said Parks Superintendent Wendy Giordano.
“Special thanks to Chad Westbrook and Tony Mecum for their excellent work promoting, protecting, and maintaining our urban forest,” Giordano said.
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