By Maya Betti, News Intern
Northfield is once again being recognized for its commitment to urban forestry.
This year, the city has been named a 2024 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, a global nonprofit dedicated to “inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.”
This marks the 27th year Northfield has earned the Tree City USA designation, and the 15th consecutive year it has received the Growth Award — an honor given to communities that demonstrate enhanced levels of tree care, innovative forestry practices, and strong community involvement.
The Tree City USA program, a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation, the USDA Forest Service, and the National Association of State Foresters, has been honoring communities across the country for over 50 years.
To qualify, cities must meet four core standards: maintain a tree board or department, have a tree-related ordinance, invest at least $2 per resident in urban forestry, and host an Arbor Day celebration.
According to a press release from the Arbor Day Foundation, urban forests play a key role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, reducing stormwater runoff, and improving air quality, which contributes to improved public health and environmental quality.
In Northfield, these environmental and health benefits are supported through the city’s active tree management efforts.
Over the past year, Northfield has focused heavily on managing threats such as emerald ash borer infestations and Dutch elm disease. Staff have worked to preserve existing trees and plant new ones, continuing a long-standing tradition of proactive tree care according to the city’s horticulturist, Shelley Evanson.
More information about the Tree City USA program is available at arborday.org.
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