Santee Named Tree City USA by Arbor Day Foundation

Santee was named a 2012 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.  This is the eleventh year Santee has earned the national designation.

The city achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree board department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

A representative from the California Department of Forestry and Fire will recognize this honor at the city council meeting Wednesday.

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

“Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Santee make smart investments in urban forests,” said John Rosenow, founder and chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation.  “Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits.”

Cleaner air, improved storm water management, energy savings and increased property values and commercial activity are among the benefits enjoyed by Tree City USA communities.

More information about Tree City USA can be found at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

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