Salem was named a Tree City USA for its work in 2016 by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.
Salem achieved Tree City USA recognition by continuing to meet the program’s four requirements – a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
“Tree City USA communities see the impact of an urban forest has in a community first hand,” said Dan Lambe, President of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Additionally, in recognition brings residents together and creates a sense of community pride, whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education.”
Trees provide multiple benefits to a community hey when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.
