The City of Aiken, South Carolina, has been recognized as a Tree City USA community for the 37th consecutive year. Cara Specht of the South Carolina Forestry Commission presented the award to the City of Aiken on Wednesday, June 1, at the Aiken Municipal Building, recognizing Aiken’s commitment to effective urban forestry management.
The Tree City USA designation is granted to communities that meet four core standards of urban forestry management: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and celebrating Arbor Day.
Aiken has consistently met all of these standards while developing a robust tree planting and education program, which has resulted in a net increase in the city’s tree canopies.
“Our trees are an important part of our city’s culture and history,” remarked Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon. “They make our city more beautiful, provide shade and cooling in the summer, and improve our air quality, and we are committed to preserving and expanding our gorgeous canopies. We’re proud to be a Tree City USA community.”
L-R– Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon, Cara Specht, SC Forestry Commission
Aaron Campbell, City of Aiken Horticulturist/Arborist
