Anna Mattson, left, an organizer with the Negaunee Beautification Committee; Tyler Behm, denter, an employee at Nagelkirk, a Harvey-based gardening center; and Derek DuShane of the city of Negaunee plant a Red Sunset maple tree at Bernie Rivers Memorial Field in Negaunee in 2021. (Journal file photo)

NEGAUNEE — Arbor Day was Friday and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has revealed that the city of Negaunee will be recognized as a Tree City through the DNR’s Tree City USA program.

This designation will be given by the Arbor Day Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to plant and celebrate trees.

“In 2023, four new communities — Menominee, Negaunee, Beverly Hills and Michiana — joined the increasing number of cities, villages and townships to be certified as a Tree City USA for their efforts to promote and care for public trees within the community,” said Lawrence Sobson, a spokesperson for the DNR.

As of 2022, the Tree City USA program has planted over 1 million trees and invested nearly $2 billion into urban forestry.

“Our story isn’t over. We hope to continue growing our network, city by city, until every American can live in a Tree City USA community,” detailed the Tree City USA website.

It further explained the benefits of becoming a member of Tree City USA: having an urban forest offers sound absorbtion, reduces heat, saves on energy costs, increases property values and offers many other advantages to communities.

To achieve the Tree City USA recognition, only four criteria must be met, according to its website. It requires the city to maintain a tree board or department, to have a community tree ordinance, to spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and to celebrate Arbor Day.

“Publicly demonstrating your commitment to the environment is a great way to build pride among residents, as well as position your community as an attractive place to live. To help you share your award, we send signs, flags, press releases, and other materials after your acceptance,” read the Tree City USA website.

Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. His email address is aanderson@miningjournal.net.