HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Arbor Day Foundation officials have once again selected the Hanscom Air Force Base installation as a ‘Tree City USA,’ marking the 36th year receiving that designation.
‘Tree City USA’ is a program created by the Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. The program recognizes cities, towns and military installations that meet certain criteria related to tree management and care. These criteria include having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance.
“The base has an active tree management plan, which includes regular tree planting and pruning, disease and pest management, and storm damage mitigation,” said Michael Watkin, 66th Civil Engineering Division community planner and organizer for this year’s Arbor Day events.
As part of this year’s National Arbor Day celebration, Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, signed a proclamation April 28 with Hanscom Middle School students on hand to mark the occasion.
The proclamation urges all base personnel to support efforts to protect trees, shrubs, woodlands, and wetlands for the well-being of all generations.
Hanscom Middle School seventh graders completed Arbor Day projects and selected one to present during a tree planting on base.
“Their presentations included poetry, posters, slide presentations and models,” said Becca Fasciano, HMS teacher. “Students presented to their classmates who then voted on who should represent the group [at the planting].”
The Arbor Day Foundation recognizes the important role that trees play in our communities and encourages individuals and organizations to take action to preserve and protect them.
“Trees are a critical component of our environment and provide numerous benefits, such as improving air quality, reducing soil erosion, and providing wildlife habitats,” said Watkin.
According to civil engineers, Hanscom AFB is among the 10 longest-running towns or installation selected as a ‘Tree City USA’ community in New England.
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.