DeKalb County has been recognized as a 2025 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, highlighting its ongoing efforts to plant, grow, and maintain trees within the community. The Tree City USA program, which is marking its 50th year, honors municipalities that demonstrate a commitment to urban forestry.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit organization with over one million supporters and partners worldwide. Its initiatives have led to the planting of more than 500 million trees in over 60 countries. The Tree City USA program aims to promote healthier and more resilient communities through tree-focused efforts.
Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation, stated, “For five decades, Tree City USA has rallied passionate local leaders to enhance the livability and sustainability of their communities. Tree champions like DeKalb County are leading the way in a growing movement to shape a better future with trees and action. Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities. We’re proud DeKalb County is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”
Research indicates that urban trees can help address issues such as heat island effects, stormwater runoff, air quality improvement, and mental and physical health benefits. Properly placed trees may also reduce traffic noise, raise property values, and lower homeowners’ energy costs.
To qualify for Tree City USA status, cities or counties must meet four requirements: maintain a tree board or department; have a community tree ordinance; spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration. The program operates in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
For additional information about Tree City USA or other programs offered by the Arbor Day Foundation, visit arborday.org/programs.
In related news about DeKalb County schools, enrollment decreased by 2.2% during the 2022-23 school year compared to the previous year (https://www.gadoe.org/). The total number of students enrolled was 98,287 for that academic period (https://www.gadoe.org/), with white students comprising 14% of this student population (https://www.gadoe.org/).
The Arbor Day Foundation describes itself as “a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.” Over its five-decade history it has helped plant more than half a billion trees globally alongside various partners. More details can be found at arborday.org.
