HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The installation has received a “Tree City USA” designation for the 38th consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, oversees the program that honors communities nationwide for their effective tree management and care practices.
“Our efforts go beyond beautification, they directly support installation resilience by promoting a healthy environment that benefits everyone who lives and works on the installation,” said Michael Watkin, 66th Civil Engineering Division community planner, who organizes Arbor Day activities each year. “We continue to prioritize planting, maintaining, and protecting our natural resources year-round.”
Communities must meet four key standards to earn the Tree City USA designation: maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on forestry management, and hosting an annual Arbor Day observance.
During the Arbor Day ceremony held May 1, Col. Jorge Jimenez, installation commander, joined students from Hanscom School for a tree-planting event outside the Fitness and Sports Center.
Jimenez also signed a proclamation, urging all base personnel to “support efforts to protect our trees, shrubs and woodlands, and wetlands.”
Seventh grade students showcased Arbor Day-themed projects, including posters and oral presentations highlighting the vital role trees play in maintaining environmental health.
The Arbor Day Foundation emphasizes the positive impacts trees have on air quality, water conservation, stormwater management, and overall community resilience.
Hanscom AFB continues to stand out in New England, maintaining one of the longest-running Tree City USA streaks, a testament to the base’s enduring focus on building a sustainable installation environment.
For more information on Arbor Day or the Tree City USA program, visit www.arborday.org or contact Watkin at 781-225-2953.