HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- 66th Civil Engineering Division officials recently announced that the installation has been selected as a ‘Tree City USA’ for the 34th consecutive year following the planting of a tree here, April 26.
To qualify as a tree city, a community must have a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, a comprehensive forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
“With the planting of this tree, our solid pre-management plan, and working closely with the civil engineering grounds crew, Hanscom has proudly maintained its Tree City USA status,” said Michael Watkin, 66th Civil Engineering Division community planner and organizer for this year’s Arbor Day events.
The base is among the 10 longest-running towns selected as a Tree City USA community in New England, according to CE.
As part of this year’s National Arbor Day celebration, Col. Katrina Stephens, installation commander, will sign a proclamation May 2.
The proclamation urges base personnel to support efforts to protect trees, shrubs, woodlands, and wetlands for the well-being of this and future generations.
The Arbor Day Foundation, in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, administers the Tree City USA program to provide public attention and recognition for local commitments to community trees and forests.
According to the Tree City USA website, the program provides direction, assistance, and national recognition for involved communities. It is the framework for a healthy, sustainable urban forestry program which publicly demonstrates a commitment to the environment.
“When people visit [Hanscom AFB], they are surprised at how beautiful it is, almost as if they were on a small campus,” said Watkin. “I think the old wooded areas along with the newly planted trees are a big part of creating a nice atmosphere to work and live.”
For more information about Arbor Day or the Tree City USA program, visit www.arborday.org or contact base civil engineers at 781-225-6040.