The Town of Jonesborough was named a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management.
Four requirements are to be met in order to be considered for the honor: maintain a tree board or department, have a tree care ordinance, dedicate an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and host an Arbor Day observance and proclamation — all of which Jonesborough met.
“We are blessed to live in a beautiful historic area, but the trees that accent our town brighten and elevate that beauty,” said Jonesborough Mayor Chuck Vest. “Years ago, we decided to achieve Tree City USA and its rewarding when we continue to achieve that recognition.”
To be a Tree City USA recognized city is an honor that Vest prides in, especially since the honor focuses on making the world beyond Jonesborough better as well.
“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 Town of Jonesborough are ensuring 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.”
Vest added that now the town incorporates trees in most all the new developments.
“We have trees we have incorporated in Lincoln Park, and we’ve planted hundreds of trees on our new school site,” he said. “Trees are a very important part of our ecosystem.”
According to Lambe, if ever there was a time for trees, now is that time.
“Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use and extreme heat and flooding,” he said. “The Town of Jonesborough is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future.”
You can find more information on the program at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.