DAPHNE, Ala. — Daphne was recogized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA community for its commitment to urban forestry. It is the 22nd year the city has received this national recognition.

Daphne also received a Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating progress in its community forestry program in education and public relations, literature distribution, local awards program, youth education, partnerships and new project or organization.

The Growth Award honors environmental improvement and higher levels of tree care in Tree City USA communities. This is the 19th year Daphne has received this award.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service. 

Daphne has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community. 

Tree City USA communities must have a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

“Communities that are honored with a Tree City USA designation and a Growth Award make a strong commitment to planting and caring for trees, and we applaud their efforts,” said John Rosenow, chief executive and founder of the Arbor Day Foundation.

“We also commend the community of Daphne’s elected officials, volunteers and its citizens for providing needed care for its trees. They recognize that trees provide numerous environmental, economical and health benefits for the community every day.