The Tree City USA Growth Award is presented by the Arbor Day Foundation to participating Tree City USA communities that demonstrate higher levels of tree care and community engagement during the calendar year. All Tree City USA communities applying for recertification are also eligible to apply for a Growth Award during the online renewal process. First-time Tree City USA applicants are not eligible for a Growth Award.
Apply NowThe Growth Award recognizes major milestones and annual activities in five categories that combine to build sustainable community forestry programs over the long term. Each activity has a value between 1 and 10 points, and communities must document activities that total at least 10 points—from any of the subcategories—to receive the Growth Award for the calendar year.
See the Categories & Find an Activity
- A1 Budget Increase
- A2 Donation Account Created
- A3 Grant Applications
- A4 New Funding Source
- A5 Emergency Appropriation
- A6 City Forester
- A7 Supervising Arborist
- A8 Allied Professionals
- A9 Additional Credentials
- A10 Green Jobs
- A11 Tree Worker Safety Program
- A12 Continuing Education
- A13 Arborist Exchange
- A14 Department Accreditation
- A15 Leadership Training
- B1 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
- B2 Canopy Sampling Estimate
- B3 Land Cover Analysis
- B4 Management Inventory
- B5 Management Inventory System
- B6 Tree Inventory Portion
- B7 Street Tree Survey
- B8 Natural Areas Sampling
- B9 Ecosystem Services Assessment
- B10 Periodic Update
- B11 Forest Health Threat Assessment
- C1 Ordinance Clauses
- C2 Species List
- C3 Risk Management Policy
- C4 Private Tree Protection Ordinance
- C5 Canopy Cover Goal
- C6 Policy or Plan Update
- C7 Annual Work Plan
- C8 Single-Issue Plans
- C9 Management Plan
- C10 Section Plan
- C11 Urban Forest Master Plan
- C12 Green Infrastructure Plan
- D1 Tree Planting Program
- D2 Tree Planting Projects
- D3 Survival Monitoring
- D4 Community Tree Nursery
- D5 Planting Site Evaluation
- D6 Planting-to-Removals Ratio
- D7 Tree Reporting Process
- D8 Young Tree Training
- D9 Systematic Maintenance
- D10 Utility Tree Care
- D11 Annual Risk Survey
- D12 Tree Risk Mitigation
- D13 Mock Exercise
- D14 Urban Forest Strike Team
- D15 Tree Debris Recycling
- D16 Public Installations
- D17 Urban Wood Utilization
- D18 Processing Facility
- D19 Tree Protection
- D20 Enforcement Proceedings
- D21 Tree Rescue
- D22 Land Stewardship
- D23 Restoration Work
- D24 Forest Health Management
- D25 Openspace Acquisition
- E1 Citizen Tree Board
- E2 Departmental Communication
- E3 Nonprofit Tree Group
- E4 Cooperative Partnership
- E5 Alliance for Community Trees Membership
- E6 New Tree Board Member
- E7 Service Organizations
- E8 Volunteer Tree Care
- E9 Volunteer Coordinator
- E10 Citizen Science
- E11 Public Tree Care Guide
- E12 Community Forestry Report
- E13 Publications
- E14 Publicity Campaign
- E15 Environmental Equity
- E16 Tree Festival
- E17 Interpretive Program
- E18 Awards Program
- E19 External Recognition
- E20 Arbor Day Events
- E21 Tree Care Workshops
- E22 Education Facility
- E23 Youth Education
- E24 Outdoor Classroom
Budget Increase
4 Points
At the start of the upcoming fiscal year, the municipal forestry budget has been approved for an increase over the trailing three-year average, as reported on Tree City USA applications.
Documentation
On Application provide budget amounts from prior TCUSA applications vs. upcoming year
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
use A5 (Emergency Appropriation) for mid-year increases
Donation Account Created
4 Points
A new special account was established during the year to accept public donations for tree planting and care, arboretum improvements, memorial tree groves, or other community forestry activities, to augment General Fund expenditures.
Documentation
On Application provide date and description of ordinance or other official document authorizing the new permanent account for monetary donations toward tree planting and/or care
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
not eligible with A4 (New Funding Source)
Grant Applications
3 Points
Two or more applications for grant funding were submitted (not necessarily awarded) during the year to accomplish specific community forestry projects or programs.
Documentation
On Application list and describe purpose for the two or more grant applications submitted
Upload OPTIONAL
New Funding Source
5 Points
A new, permanent source of municipal or private funding was enacted or awarded during the year (such as tree mitigation funds generated by commercial development), resulting in a 5% or greater increase in the current municipal forestry program budget.
Documentation
On Application describe the source of funding that supports tree planting and/or care, or the forestry department
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of authorizing document(s)
Pro Tip:
eligible once per funding source, but allow multiple entries for the year
Emergency Appropriation
2 Points
A supplemental budget process was used during the year to prioritize forestry activities during insect/disease outbreaks, storms, drought, wildfire, or other city emergencies.
Documentation
On Application describe emergency and the process for receiving additional funds to address it
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
use A1 (Budget Increase) for funding increases provided as part of the normal budget cycle
City Forester
10 Points
For the first time and during the year, the city hired a professional urban forester with the education (degree in forestry, urban forestry, or closely related field) and expertise (such as ISA credentials, or state certification) to provide leadership for the community forestry program.
Documentation
On Application describe new position, primary duties, and qualifications of person hired
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of job posting, position description
Pro Tip:
no points for rehiring a vacant position without proof that the position was eliminated, then reinstated
Supervising Arborist
10 Points
For the first time and during the year, the city employed a staff position for an ISA or state-certified arborist or added this credential to an existing job description. The position is responsible for overseeing safety and performance standards for all tree workers in the department.
Documentation
On Application describe new position, primary duties, and qualifications of person hired
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of job posting, position description
Pro Tip:
no points for rehiring a vacant position without proof that the position was eliminated, then reinstated
Allied Professionals
5 Points
One or more individuals with urban forestry or allied professional credentials (e.g. Landscape Architect, Urban Planning, Horticulture) were added to the community forestry team during the year (could be municipal staff or consultant).
Documentation
On Application describe new position(s), primary duties, and qualifications of person hired
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible once per position; no points for rehiring a vacant position
Additional Credentials
5 Points
Additional Certified Arborists or Certified Tree Workers were credentialed or added to the community forestry team during the year. Includes additional state board, TCIA, or ISA credentials (Municipal Specialist, Utility Specialist, Board Certified Master Arborist, Certified Treecare Safety Professional, Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, etc.) for existing staff members.
Documentation
On Application describe added credentials, certifications, or qualifications
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
one-time credit, per credential, per individual; 5 points total are eligible for the year
Green Jobs
4 Points
One or more individuals without formal experience in urban forestry — particularly youth, women, minorities, or other underserved segments of society — were provided internships, apprenticeships, job corps, or other training and work opportunities within the urban forestry program. Includes programs run by the community nonprofit partner. Work status includes temporary, part-time, and full-time positions.
Documentation
On Application describe training or work program and roster
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible for different individuals each year
Tree Worker Safety Program
4 Points
A safety program for city tree workers was conducted during the year, with documented meetings, topics, and training agendas. Program must conform to ANSI Z133 Safety Standard (such as the Tree Care Industry Association’s Tailgate Safety Program).
Documentation
On Application describe training program, agenda topics covered, and dates
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
reference ANSI Z-133 Safety Standard or TCIA Tailgate Safety Program for more info
Continuing Education
3 Points
During the year, the city supported, sponsored, or sent tree workers, professional staff, tree board members, or nonprofit partner employees to state-, ISA-, or TCIA-sanctioned educational opportunities, with at least 10 hours of continuing education credits documented.
Documentation
On Application provide summary or list of sanctioned meetings attended, individuals, and CEUs earned
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
minimum 10 hours of CEUs, combined for all individuals
Arborist Exchange
3 Points
During the year, a member of the city forestry team or the community nonprofit group participated in an exchange program sponsored by either the Urban and Community Forestry Society or the Alliance for Community Trees. Both 'sending' and 'receiving' communities are eligible for this activity.
Documentation
On Application provide summary of report or link to article from participant
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
both sending and receiving cities are eligible in the same year
Department Accreditation
10 Points
During the year and for the first time, the forestry department received official accreditation from the Urban and Community Forestry Society.
Documentation
On Application describe accreditation process
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of official accreditation letter from the Urban and Community Forestry Society
Leadership Training
5 Points
During the year, a community forestry team member (city or nonprofit partner) graduated from the Urban and Community Forestry Society’s Municipal Forestry Institute program or the ISA Leadership Academy.
Documentation
On Application identify and summarize training course, name(s) of individual(s)
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible for different individuals each year
Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
10 Points
During the year, the city conducted a high-resolution assessment of tree canopy (1-meter resolution, or better) across the entire community (public and private lands) using professional imaging software, LIDAR, multi-spectral and/or other specialized imagery. Includes updates to an earlier assessment to calculate canopy change.
Documentation
On Application describe process and products of the assessment, including link to online report
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of UTC report and map
Pro Tip:
include updates to an earlier assessment to calculate canopy change
Canopy Sampling Estimate
5 Points
During the year, the city conducted a 'snapshot' assessment of citywide tree canopy using sampling technique or online tools (i-Tree Canopy: minimum 1,000 sample points). The summary report delivers the area of ‘tree canopy’ and ‘plantable space,’ used to calculate 'potential canopy.'
Documentation
On Application describe process and outputs of the assessment
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of i-Tree Canopy summary report
Pro Tip:
i-Tree Canopy assessments with 1,000 sample points require 4–8 hours of computer time
Land Cover Analysis
5 Points
During the year, the city performed an analysis of tree canopy, land use and/or Census data to prioritize tree planting and canopy retention programs. Analysis consistent with i-Tree Landscape assessments using NLCD datasets (30-meter resolution).
Documentation
On Application describe process and outputs of the assessment
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of i-Tree Landscape report
Pro Tip:
useful for developing priority areas for tree planting, protection, and outreach
Management Inventory
10 Points
During the year, the city completed a detailed, spatial inventory (with GPS locations) of street trees (or managed park trees, or both), including planting spaces, to inform urban forestry planning, operations, and decision-making.
Documentation
On Application describe major findings and summary statistics, include link to online report if one exists
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of summary report
Pro Tip:
can be used for street trees, separately for park trees, or both
Management Inventory System
7 Points
During the year, the city (or partner group) purchased and installed a computerized system for tracking the municipal tree inventory and management activities for public trees. It must accommodate planting spaces, location data (i.e., GIS), and allow for maintenance updates following treatments.
Documentation
On Application provide a summary of system capabilities, link to vendor website
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of invoice
Pro Tip:
eligible one time only, per system purchased/developed
Tree Inventory Portion
3 Points
During the year, a portion of the public tree-by-tree inventory was completed or updated and entered in the management system.
Documentation
On Application describe area surveyed, tree numbers, percent of total trees
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of summary data report
Street Tree Survey
6 Points
During the year, the city completed a sample-based survey of street trees to guide planning efforts for public right-of-way property. Collected data must include DBH and species for each tree (conforming to i-Tree protocols) and include potential planting sites.
Documentation
On Application describe survey methods and results, with relevant statistics
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of i-Tree Streets summary or comparable report
Pro Tip:
conforms to i-Tree Streets methodology
Natural Areas Sampling
5 Points
During the year, all the natural areas within the city (or a significant portion) were sampled, including evaluations of ecological value or condition.
Documentation
On Application describe areas surveyed, sampling methods, and results
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of map and summary report
Pro Tip:
sampling minimum: 1 plot per acre
Ecosystem Services Assessment
10 Points
During the year, the city (or partner groups) completed a sample-based survey of trees on private and public property that conforms to i-Tree Eco protocols. Projects include 'intensified' Urban Forest Inventory & Analysis (UFIA) sampling by state forestry personnel and must include a report on the structure, function, and value of the urban forest.
Documentation
On Application describe assessment methods, report key findings, provide link to online report
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of full report
Pro Tip:
sampling minimum: 200 sample points
Periodic Update
5 Points
During the year, staff, volunteers, or state agency personnel updated plot-based data for an ecosystem services assessment on a portion of sample plots and issued a report for the community.
Documentation
On Application describe update process, plots remeasured, key findings, link to report
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of update report
Pro Tip:
only eligible after B9 (Ecosystem Services Assessment)
Forest Health Threat Assessment
5 Points
During the year, staff, volunteers, and/or state agency personnel conducted a tree health threat assessment in preparation for an insect or disease outbreak for a significant segment of the urban forest (managed trees or natural areas) and issued a report to the community.
Documentation
On Application describe process and products of the assessment, including link to report
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of assessment report
Pro Tip:
eligible for each new forest pest
Ordinance Clauses
5 Points
During the year, one or more of the following clauses were added to the public tree care ordinance: a) care of street trees by adjacent owners b) duties of tree board c) nuisance trees on private property d) protection of public trees e) arborist licensing or registration f) interference with city officers/tree board g) utility practices and notification h) permits required to plant/remove trees i) prohibition against tree topping j) establishing tree care standards
Documentation
On Application describe or quote new ordinance clause(s), provide online link
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of revised ordinance
Pro Tip:
eligible for different clauses each year
Species List
3 Points
During the year, the city established as policy a list of tree species that are eligible (recommended) or ineligible (prohibited) for planting on public property. List should be published as a stand-alone document, appended to the tree management plan, or included in the standards and care manual (E11).
Documentation
On Application describe update to list, species added or subtracted
Upload OPTIONAL
Risk Management Policy
8 Points
During the year and for the first time, the city adopted a written tree risk management policy for inspecting and mitigating reported tree problems, including a timetable for mitigating potential hazards.
Documentation
On Application summarize policy, provide link to online version
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of policy document
Pro Tip:
eligible with C8-f (Single-Issue Plans: tree risk management)
Private Tree Protection Ordinance
9 Points
During the year and for the first time, the city adopted a new ordinance section within city development code that details requirements for tree protection, mitigation, and noncompliance penalties for trees on private property during the land development process. Includes standards for tree protection, trenching/boring in critical root zones (CRZs), preconstruction mulching, root or limb pruning, and watering.
Documentation
On Application summarize ordinance provisions related to trees, provide link to online version
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of new ordinance
Canopy Cover Goal
8 Points
During the year and for the first time, the city adopted a citywide canopy goal as official policy. Goal is based on an analysis of current and potential canopy and should be scaled to the neighborhood, land use, or district level to direct tree planting or retention programs toward areas with the lowest tree cover.
Documentation
On Application describe policy and goal, link to online version
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of canopy goal policy
Policy or Plan Update
5 Points
Any of the city's policies or plans for community trees were updated during the year to reflect goals and objectives for the upcoming five- to 10-year period.
Documentation
On Application describe policy or plan update, with summary of changes
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of revised plan or policy
Pro Tip:
eligible every 5 years, per plan or policy title
Annual Work Plan
3 Points
City staff and/or tree board assigned appropriate targets and budget for tree planting, maintenance, and removals on public property for the upcoming fiscal year. Targets can be reported from current Management Plan (C9) if one exists.
Documentation
On Application summarize annual targets for trees and budget
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of plan or meeting minutes
Single-Issue Plans
5 Points
During the year, the city adopted a written plan to address one or more tree care issues, such as: a) tree planting b) emergency/storm response c) insect/disease response d) natural areas management e) wildfire preparedness f) tree risk management g) species adaptability to climate change
Documentation
On Application describe new plan(s), provide online link
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of plan
Pro Tip:
eligible once per plan title
Management Plan
10 Points
During the year and for the first time, the city completed a detailed, multi-year (5-10 years) scope of work for the planting, care, and removal of trees on public property (parks, streets, public buildings, etc.). Plan includes budget targets and must be based on data from an existing public tree inventory (meets requirements of B4).
Documentation
On Application summarize plan priorities and objectives, provide online link
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of plan
Section Plan
5 Points
During the year, a management plan (see C9) was established for a significant subset of public trees: a neighborhood (such as downtown), a major park, all streets, etc.
Documentation
On Application describe area covered by plan, summarize objectives, provide online link
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of map and plan
Pro Tip:
eligible once per section
Urban Forest Master Plan
10 Points
During the year and for the first time, a general assessment and policy summary for the community's entire urban forest was adopted, with guidance from external partners and from city departments that impact urban trees. The Master Plan provides consistency between policies and plans of different city departments and partner groups.
Documentation
On Application describe long-term goals, partners, stakeholders, and provide link to online version
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of plan
Green Infrastructure Plan
10 Points
A community, county, or regional plan for connected openspace corridors and existing natural areas was completed during the year. Plan must include description of ecological features and functions along with some level of parcel prioritization and a discussion of funding mechanisms for protection.
Documentation
On Application describe region, long-term goals, partners, stakeholders, and provide link to online version
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of map and plan
Tree Planting Program
8 Points
During the year, a new program (with funding source) was established for installing trees on public or private property (such as 'Utility-Friendly Trees,' 'Trees For Anytown,' 'NeighborWoods', etc.). Program should integrate with the community tree planting plan (C8), but may be organized, funded, and managed by a community nonprofit or utility partner.
Documentation
On Application describe program, name, and link to information
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible one time per named program
Tree Planting Projects
2 Points
During the year, the city, local utility, or nonprofit partner continued to install new trees as part of an existing program (see D1) to plant trees on public or private property.
Documentation
On Application describe annual results, link to report, if one exists
Upload OPTIONAL
Survival Monitoring
4 Points
During the year, sponsors of community tree planting programs (see D1) conducted field inspections and reported survival data on trees planted within the past five years.
Documentation
On Application summarize results of survival and growth for the year
Upload OPTIONAL
Community Tree Nursery
5 Points
During the year and for the first time, the city or partner organization established a tree nursery to supply appropriate trees for local tree planting programs (see D1). Facility is not required to be within city limits to qualify.
Documentation
On Application describe nursery facility, capacity, target output
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible once per organization
Planting Site Evaluation
3 Points
During the year, sponsors of community tree planting programs evaluated all proposed planting sites and either: 1) matched tree species to planting sites based on those parameters (such as the Urban Site Index protocol), or; 2) mitigated space or soil conditions (removed concrete, added organic matter, etc.).
Documentation
On Application describe methods used, number of planting sites, mitigation efforts
Upload OPTIONAL
Planting-to-Removals Ratio
3 Points
During the year, the number of trees planted on public property by the city or partner organizations was greater than the number of public trees removed, for all reasons, as reported on the Tree City USA application.
Documentation
On Application report numbers from Tree City USA application, or a summary report to council on annual accomplishments
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
no exception for storm events
Tree Reporting Process
5 Points
During the year, the city established a new system or process for citizens and city staff to report tree safety issues (or other complaints) to the forestry department or manager (e.g., 3-1-1 system, online form, etc.). System (or staff) records the time between report and mitigation action.
Documentation
On Application describe reporting process, provide statistics for the year
Upload OPTIONAL
Young Tree Training
4 Points
A program of care for newly planted (<5 years old) trees was performed during the year. As needed, each tree was pruned to improve structure and eliminate root defects, mulched, watered, and/or treated for pests/disease.
Documentation
On Application describe program of work, include number of trees <5 years old maintained
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
not eligible with D9 (Systematic Maintenance)
Systematic Maintenance
5 Points
During the year, city forestry staff performed systematic preventive and restorative maintenance (as necessary) on 10% or more of public trees. Work includes insect and disease control that follows Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles but does not include tree risk evaluations or mitigation (see D11, D12).
Documentation
On Application describe general program of work, include number of trees maintained and total inventory to calculate percentage
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
not eligible with D8 (Young Tree Training)
Utility Tree Care
1 Points
The utility responsible for maintaining trees within utility ROWs was a Tree Line USA company for the year, or the utility contractor performing work in the community qualified as a TCIA Accredited Utility Contractor.
Documentation
On Application describe program and recognition given
Upload OPTIONAL
Annual Risk Survey
4 Points
During the year, city staff performed a 'limited visual' survey of public trees in (at least) high-priority zones, as mapped in Tree Risk Management plan (see C8-f), in order to identify potential hazards (follows ANSI A300 Part 9 & ISA BMP for Tree Risk Assessment).
Documentation
On Application summarize survey methods, areas surveyed, tree problems documented
Upload OPTIONAL
Tree Risk Mitigation
5 Points
During the year, city staff prioritized and performed or directed mitigation work for 100% of tree problems identified by staff (see D11) or reported by the public (see D7).
Documentation
On Application summarize tree numbers and mitigation efforts
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
requires 100% of reported problems to be mitigated
Mock Exercise
4 Points
During the year, city staff performed a mock emergency drill for all departments to simulate response to natural or manmade disasters. Scenario must include potential impacts by trees on transportation and power systems.
Documentation
On Application describe disaster scenario and participants
Upload OPTIONAL
Urban Forest Strike Team
5 Points
During the year, city received assistance from — or sent qualified staff to — a state or national Urban Forest Strike Team to assist with public tree evaluations following a natural disaster or forest pest infestation.
Documentation
On Application describe process and summarize report findings
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
both sending and receiving cities are eligible in the same year
Tree Debris Recycling
4 Points
During the year, 100% of the leaf and woody debris generated by municipal tree care activities (incl. contractors) was delivered to recycling or wood processing facilities and not sent to municipal or regional landfills.
Documentation
On Application describe recycling program for woody debris, link to annual report
Upload OPTIONAL
Public Installations
2 Points
Recycled wood products from municipal operations (e.g., logs, mulch, or compost) were used in landscape settings during the year. Also include using solid wood for benches, supports, or other rudimentary structures as well as public art installations.
Documentation
On Application describe or summarize how wood products are used on city property
Upload OPTIONAL
Urban Wood Utilization
4 Points
A portion of the woody material generated from tree care operations during the year was converted to high-quality end products (e.g., furniture, cabinets, flooring, lumber, etc.) or another higher-value product (e.g., fuel pellets, pallets, or pulpwood), through city contract, public auction, or donation.
Documentation
On Application provide types and quantities of wood products generated
Upload OPTIONAL
Processing Facility
5 Points
During the year, the city or a business partner began operating a processing plant that utilizes municipal wood residue (such as biofuel, wood pellets, lumber, etc.).
Documentation
On Application describe partnership agreement and facility capacity
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible once per facility
Tree Protection
4 Points
During the year, trees on public property and/or private commercial development sites were protected from construction damage and monitored by qualified staff. Required tree protection measures during the construction period conform to ANSI A300 standards and ISA BMPs, as prescribed in city code (see C1 or C4).
Documentation
On Application summarize tree protection and inspection program
Upload OPTIONAL
Enforcement Proceedings
3 Points
During the year, violations of the tree protection code were enforced through administrative action (such as stop work orders, citations, withholding of occupancy permit, performance bond, etc.) or criminal penalties.
Documentation
On Application describe violation(s), required mitigation, and action taken by city
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible once per development project
Tree Rescue
2 Points
One or more trees from public or private construction sites were relocated during the year to suitable sites on public property, either as part of capital improvement or commercial development project through special agreement.
Documentation
On Application describe number, species, sizes, and methods for moving trees
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible for 2 points per year, regardless of number of trees moved
Land Stewardship
2 Points
One or more city-owned natural areas were inspected and maintained to facilitate recreation, other public uses, ecological health, watershed value, or carbon sequestration. Public safety measures such as waste removal, hazard tree abatement, and trail maintenance are considered primary actions for the year.
Documentation
On Application describe activities performed, areas included
Upload OPTIONAL
Restoration Work
3 Points
During the year, city staff or nonprofit partners and volunteers conducted restoration practices (such as prescribed fire, invasive species removal, native species planting/seeding, etc.) on city-owned natural areas to improve the ecological value of the land, as prescribed in the city's natural areas plan (see C8).
Documentation
On Application describe treatments, areas included, objectives
Upload OPTIONAL
Forest Health Management
4 Points
During the year, city staff or contractors performed forest stand manipulations (such as thinning, timber stand improvement, overstory removal, regeneration harvest, wildlife fencing, etc.) on city-owned natural areas to facilitate natural forest succession processes or to improve forest health, as prescribed in the city's natural areas plan (see C8). Include practices to address forest insect/disease outbreaks that follow Integrated Pest Management principles (trunk injection, pheromone inhibitors, buffer cuts, etc.).
Documentation
On Application describe area, prescription, and treatments
Upload OPTIONAL
Openspace Acquisition
5 Points
Openspace land (such as forest, woodland, prairie, riparian corridors, etc.) was acquired during the year, either through purchase, donation, or long-term agreement (such as a conservation easement) and will be made available for public use.
Documentation
On Application describe tract(s) acquired, ecological significance
Upload OPTIONAL
Citizen Tree Board
10 Points
During the year, the city established by ordinance (see C1-b) an active citizen tree board, with clear duties to provide input into the city's tree management program and to contribute to policy, planning, and celebration efforts.
Documentation
On Application describe structure of board, provide link to ordinance section
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of ordinance section
Pro Tip:
only eligible when department is designated tree manager
Departmental Communication
3 Points
During the year, the city held one or more meetings among city departments (such as city manager, engineering, planning, forestry, parks, public works, water, streets, transportation, etc.) to coordinate urban forestry policy or project activities such as planting, moving, or protecting trees on public or private property.
Documentation
On Application summarize meetings, topics covered, and departments included
Upload OPTIONAL
Nonprofit Tree Group
10 Points
During the year, an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to trees was chartered in the community and began delivering programs in the community, including tree planting, tree care, and education. Efforts may be focused on public or private property.
Documentation
On Application describe organization, leadership, programs offered, provide link to website
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of charter or articles of incorporation
Pro Tip:
eligible once per organization
Cooperative Partnership
4 Points
During the year, a new cooperative agreement or contract was established between two or more entities*, resulting in any of the following: 1) additional tree planting/establishment 2) improved tree care practices (cycle pruning, tree monitoring, consulting services, wood residue recycling, etc.) 3) shared staff position 4) enhanced tree procurement (grow-out contracts) *Possible entities: a) city government b) electric service utility c) neighboring municipality d) nonprofit tree group e) private nursery, wood processor, or arboriculture firm
Documentation
On Application describe partnership and expected outcomes
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of agreement
Pro Tip:
eligible for new and renewal agreements
Alliance for Community Trees Membership
1 Points
During the year, the city or the community nonprofit group delivering urban forestry services in the community was a member of the Alliance for Community Trees (ACT).
Documentation
On Application provide quote from official membership letter
Upload OPTIONAL
New Tree Board Member
2 Points
During the year, the Tree Board added one or more new members due to expansion, retirement, or term limits.
Documentation
On Application list new member(s) added, with roles or qualifications, if required
Upload OPTIONAL
Service Organizations
2 Points
During the year, community service organizations conducted one or more community forestry projects such as tree planting, pruning, mulching, or education. Include projects led by organized neighborhood associations and Tree Campus K–12, Tree Campus Higher Education, or Tree Campus Healthcare campuses.
Documentation
On Application describe project(s) and the organization sponsoring/leading the event(s)
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
not eligible with E8 (Volunteer Tree Care) for same projects
Volunteer Tree Care
4 Points
During the year, a program (e.g., TreeKeepers, Citizen Foresters, etc.) was in place to deliver training and to utilize citizen volunteers for basic tree planting and care activities such as mulching, pruning, and watering. Program is managed by either city staff or nonprofit partner organization (see E3), and volunteer opportunities are regular and ongoing.
Documentation
On Application describe program, volunteers, training, and annual accomplishments
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
not eligible with E7 (Service Organizations) for same projects
Volunteer Coordinator
5 Points
During the year, the city or its nonprofit partner organization hired a volunteer coordinator (min. 50% of job duties) to develop and coordinate volunteer resources for tree planting and care projects on city property.
Documentation
On Application list title, job description, individual hired, and duties
Upload REQUIRED: job description
Pro Tip:
eligible once per organization
Citizen Science
3 Points
During the year, the city or its nonprofit partner organized a 'citizen science' project for the community to collect data that supports an urban forestry initiative. Projects include tree inventory, phenology, species monitoring, etc., and include a data report.
Documentation
On Application describe initiative, what data was collected, summarize findings
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
not eligible with D3 (Survival Monitoring)
Public Tree Care Guide
6 Points
During the year and for the first time, the city published (online or print) a guide for staff and the public on city laws, policies, and best practices for tree planting and care, as a companion to the tree care ordinance. The guide recommends practices that conform to ANSI Standards for arboricultural practices (A300), safety (Z133), and nursery stock (Z60.1) as well as applicable ISA BMPs.
Documentation
On Application describe guide, provide link to online version
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of publication
Pro Tip:
revisions are eligible under E13 (Publications)
Community Forestry Report
3 Points
During the year, tree board, tree commission, and/or city staff members delivered to council and the public an accomplishment report for community forestry activities during the most recently completed fiscal year. Include "State of the Urban Forest" reports that describe the current status of the community forest resource.
Documentation
On Application summarize report findings, describe presentation
Upload REQUIRED: PDF of report
Publications
3 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner published and distributed new or updated materials for the public about tree planting and care (such as the list of recommended street trees, pruning instructions, etc.).
Documentation
On Application describe publication content
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible for new publications or revisions
Publicity Campaign
5 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner launched a media campaign to inform citizens about the importance of community forestry, tree planting, tree care, or other important tree issues in the community.
Documentation
On Application describe the issue and the campaign
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible once per campaign
Environmental Equity
4 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner conducted a series of community outreach efforts (such as surveys, meetings, social media, trainings, etc.) for residents and other community service groups in targeted areas to address environmental equity. Outreach should address tree planting, care, or removal; improved access to natural resources; or social factors in the neighborhood that lead to increasing canopy.
Documentation
On Application describe outreach efforts and results
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
suitable for persistent outreach efforts that build trust
Tree Festival
4 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner held a tree-themed, communitywide event or festival (such as Arborfest, Dogwood Festival, Oak Festival, etc.) to build public awareness of trees.
Documentation
On Application describe festival and how trees were a central theme
Upload OPTIONAL
Interpretive Program
2 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner delivered one or more ongoing, interpretive programs for the public focused on trees, woodlands, or forests such as tours of outstanding trees, an arboretum, nature center, heritage trees (largest, historic), forest bathing, etc.
Documentation
On Application describe program(s), attendance, and frequency
Upload OPTIONAL
Awards Program
2 Points
During the year, community awards or other formal recognition were issued to individuals and supporting organizations for tree planting and care projects.
Documentation
On Application summarize awards ceremony or proceedings
Upload OPTIONAL
External Recognition
2 Points
During the year, the community received an award from a regional, state, or national organization (such as an ISA Chapter, state urban forestry council, America In Bloom, Arbor Day Foundation, etc.) for its community forestry program or projects.
Documentation
On Application describe award and project or program recognized
Upload OPTIONAL
Arbor Day Events
2 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner conducted additional Arbor Day events — beyond the official city observance — at local primary or secondary schools.
Documentation
On Application describe additional events, locations, dates, number of students reached
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
do not count the official community Arbor Day event or ceremony
Tree Care Workshops
3 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner delivered a series of workshops (two or more) on various aspects of tree care for homeowners, businesses, members of the public, commercial arborists, or the green industry.
Documentation
On Application describe workshops, intended audience, content, attendance
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
two or more education events required to be eligible
Education Facility
5 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner opened a new education facility to the public (such as a nature center). Educational programming at the facility must include the ecological features of trees, forests, or woodland ecosystems in that location.
Documentation
On Application describe facility and the educational focus on trees, woodlands, or forests
Upload OPTIONAL
Pro Tip:
eligible once per facility
Youth Education
2 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner delivered formal youth education programming about trees and forests (such as 4-H, Project Learning Tree, Tree Campus K–12, etc.) to help create the next generation of environmental stewards.
Documentation
On Application describe education program, lessons delivered, attendance
Upload OPTIONAL
Outdoor Classroom
2 Points
During the year, the city or nonprofit partner supported the installation of one or more new outdoor classrooms at a school, library, park, daycare, or other facility dedicated to the care and education of children.
Documentation
On Application describe outdoor classroom(s) installed
Upload OPTIONAL