Tiffin recognized for urban forestry efforts

TIFFIN - The Arbor Day Foundation named Tiffin a 2024 Tree City USA in honor of its commitment to plant, grow and maintain trees to benefit its community. The Tree City USA program has recognized cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area for over 50 years. "We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Tiffin are leading the way," said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud Tiffin is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees." In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality and boost mental and physical health. When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners. Mayor Wilkinson commented, "The City of Tiffin is honored to once again be recognized as a 2024 Tree City USA community and recipient of the Growth Award by the Arbor Day Foundation. This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the enhancement of our community's natural beauty. Trees play a vital role in improving our quality of life, and we are proud to continue investing in the health and growth of Tiffin's urban canopy. I want to thank our dedicated city staff, community partners, and residents for their efforts in making Tiffin a greener, more vibrant place to live, work, and visit." To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards including maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.