HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Civil engineers held an Arbor Day ceremony here April 16 as the base celebrates its designation as a Tree City USA community for the 39th consecutive year.
The recognition, awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters, highlights the installation’s continued commitment to effective tree management and environmental stewardship.
“Programs like Tree City USA reinforce the importance of maintaining and protecting our natural resources,” said Daniel Robbins, 66th Civil Engineering Division engineering technician and organizer of this year’s Arbor Day events. “Our efforts support a healthier installation environment while enhancing quality of life for those who live and work here.”
Communities must meet four standards to earn the Tree City USA designation, including maintaining a tree board or department, establishing a tree care ordinance, investing in forestry management, and hosting an annual Arbor Day observance.
During the ceremony, 66th Air Base Group leadership attended the tree-planting event, reinforcing the installation’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience.
“I urge all base personnel to support efforts to protect our trees, shrubs, woodlands, and wetlands,” said Col. Jorge Jiminez, installation commander, before he signed a proclamation to observe the annual observance.
Hanscom AFB middle school students also participated in the ceremony, presenting projects that highlighted the importance of Arbor Day.
The base continues to stand out in New England with one of the longest-running Tree City USA designations, reflecting decades of sustained investment in preserving and enhancing its natural landscape.
For more information about Arbor Day or the Tree City USA program, visit www.arborday.org.