Accolade bestowed by Arbor Day Foundation
For the 42nd consecutive year, the Arbor Day Foundation has designated Sarasota County a Tree City USA community, county staff announced this week.
“Being designated as a Tree City USA community is a significant accomplishment that reflects the dedication and commitment of Sarasota County to environmental stewardship and improving our quality of life today and for generations to come,” said Sarasota County Landscape and Tree Management Support Planner Patrick Foslin in a news release.
To earn the Tree City USA designation, a community must have the following in place, the release explains:
- A tree board or department, such as the Sarasota County Tree Advisory Council.
- A tree ordinance.
- A community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita.
- An Arbor Day celebration.
Sarasota County staff has “committed to each of these items and more, including education and outreach, planting projects, canopy planning, and ensuring professional staff stay current on advancements in tree care and canopy management,” the release points out…