The City of Key West has just been named a 2023 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.
"Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand," said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "The trees being planted and cared for by Key West ensure that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it's through volunteer engagement or public education."
Karen DeMaria, the City's Urban Forestry Manager, says she's grateful for the recognition the City has earned 12 times.
“Our island's canopy is vital to the quality of life of our residents and visitors,” said DeMaria.
On Arbor Day, the City urges property owners to plant trees each year.
“Trees on publicly and privately owned property within the city are economic and aesthetic assets to the citizens,” says DeMaria, “because of their important and meaningful contribution to a healthy and beautiful community.”
Key West achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements: having a tree commission, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance.
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.
DeMaria says that trees are assets to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help improve a neighborhood's visual appeal, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants, and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.