FOR RELEASE: March 13, 2009

Troy Named Tree City for 19^th Year

(TROY, MI) – Troy has once again been named a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to community forestry.

It is the 19th year that the community has received this national recognition.

Troy has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community; having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

“We are very proud of the diligent efforts that are being made within our city to keep our community in close ties with nature,” said Cindy Stewart, Community Affairs Director. “Our parks, our nature center, the beautiful landscaping of our neighborhoods – these are what make our city a very livable community.”

Communities that receive Tree City USA recognition not only have taken time to meet these four standards, they recognize that:

· Trees promote healthier communities. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles.

· Trees moderate climate, conserve water and provide habitat for wildlife.

· Trees in urban areas reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings.

· Properly placed trees can increase property values, and buildings in wooded areas rent more quickly and tenants stay longer.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit, environmental, and educational organization of nearly one million members, with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.

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