EVANSTON, ILLINOIS - The City of Evanston has been named a 2014 Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.

This is the 31st consecutive year that Evanston has achieved the recognition. The City was also honored with the Arbor Day Foundation’s 2014 Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating environmental improvement and a higher level of tree care.

“The City of Evanston is proud to be recognized as a Tree City USA community for the 31st consecutive year,” said Evanston Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl. “Evanston’s urban forest is one of our most precious and treasured resources. Trees beautify our award-winning downtown and neighborhoods, provide cleaner air for our residents, and contribute to Evanston’s goal of being the most livable city.”

In order to achieve Tree City USA recognition, communities must meet the program’s four requirements: have a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

“Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Evanston make smart investments in urban forests,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits.”

Cleaner air, improved storm water management, energy savings and increased property values and commercial activities are among the benefits enjoyed by Tree City USA communities.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. More information about the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

For more information, please call/text 847-448-4311. For convenience, residents may simply dial 3-1-1 in Evanston.