Tampa was named a 2019 Tree City USA® by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. The Tree City USA designation is achieved by meeting four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
“As we pause to help stop the spread of COVID-19 we are reminded how resilient we are in the City of Tampa,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “This year, more than ever, our commitment to our tree canopy and green spaces provides a beacon of hope that in the near future we will all return to enjoying a walk in the park, a game of catch, or a family picnic reuniting with loved ones.”
With Tree City USA recognition, Tampa has demonstrated a commitment to effective urban forest management and doing our part to help address challenges that communities across the globe are facing with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, and protection from extreme heat and flooding.