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http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/0...73066953151.txt

MC receives Tree City USA designation

Staff Reports
Published: Tuesday, May 8, 2012 5:06 PM CDT
MICHIGAN CITY — Michigan City Mayor Ron Meer announced Monday that for the 12th consecutive year, Michigan City has been named a Tree City USA community for its commitment to urban forestry.

This is a national honor, bestowed upon Michigan City by the Arbor Day Foundation, the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to trees.

“We all benefit when communities like Michigan City place a high priority on planting and caring for trees, one of our nation’s most beautiful resources,” said John Rosenow, chief executive and founder of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees shade our homes and add beauty to our neighborhoods, and they also provide many environmental, economic and social benefits. We applaud Michigan City’s elected officials, volunteers and citizens for providing vital care for its urban forest.”

Michigan City 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 community forestry program with annual expenditures of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

Communities that earn Tree City USA recognition not only have taken the time to meet the four standards, they know that trees:

• Promote healthier communities by filtering the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles.

• Moderate climate, conserve water and provide vital habitat for wildlife.

• Reduce the heat island effect in urban areas caused by pavement and buildings.

• Reduce energy use and increase property values.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.