For the 10th consecutive year, the city of Branson has been named a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

Branson is also the recipient of the Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating progress in its community forestry program. The Growth Award was created to recognize environmental improvement and higher levels of tree care in Tree City USA communities. It’s the seventh year the city has received this recognition.

To become a Tree City USA, a community must meet four standards: a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance.

“It’s truly an honor to again receive this environmental recognition,” said Mayor Schaefer. “It’s an award that focuses on a commitment our city officials and residents have made to plant, maintain and protect trees so we can pass on an enduring heritage of a vital natural resource to future generations.”

John Rosenow, president of the National Arbor Day Foundation said Tree City USA and the Growth Award uniquely recognize communities like Branson that have proven their commitment to an effective, ongoing community forestry program.

“The Tree City USA award is an excellent indication that there is a solid foundation for a process of renewal and improvement – a program of tree planting and care that continues through the years,” Rosenow said. “Our congratulations to the Branson community on receiving this national recognition for your tree-care program.”

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.

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