Amherst is celebrating Arbor Day as a Tree City USA, a designation that recognizes the town's commitment to urban forestry. The town has been recognized for its efforts to plant and maintain trees, and to promote the importance of trees in the community. Amherst has a long history of supporting urban forestry, and this designation is a testament to the town's dedication to this cause.
The town's Arbor Day celebration is an annual event that takes place on the last Friday in April, but the town is still celebrating its Tree City USA designation.
"We are proud to be recognized as a Tree City USA," said Mayor of Amherst, "this designation is a result of our town's hard work and commitment to urban forestry."
The town's urban forestry program is responsible for planting and maintaining trees on public property, as well as promoting the importance of trees in the community. The program is funded through a combination of town funds and grants from organizations such as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
The Tree City USA designation is awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation, a national organization that promotes urban forestry and recognizes communities that have made a commitment to tree planting and maintenance. The designation is awarded to communities that meet certain standards, including having a tree care ordinance, a tree board or department, and a community forestry program.
The celebration of Arbor Day and the Tree City USA designation is a significant event for Amherst residents, as it highlights the town's efforts to maintain and improve its tree canopy. The town's tree canopy provides numerous benefits, including shade, beauty, and improved air quality.
The town's urban forestry program is an important part of its overall environmental sustainability efforts. Amherst is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability, and the urban forestry program is a key part of this effort.
The town will continue to celebrate its Tree City USA designation throughout the year, with events and activities that promote the importance of trees in the community. The next step for the town is to plan for its annual tree planting event, which will take place in the fall.