CAFB receives Tree City award

  • Published
  • By Frank Lockhart
  • 14th Civil Engineer Squadron
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The 24th annual Tree City USA Award and Growth Award was presented to Columbus Air Force Base June 5, 2017.

This is the 24th year that Columbus AFB has received the title of Tree City.

Tree City USA is awarded to those sites that fulfill four requirements. These include an established tree board or forestry department, a tree ordinance, an urban forest management program supported by a minimum budget of $2 per capita and an observance and proclamation of Arbor Day.

Columbus Air Force Base is one of only 45 cities in the state qualifying for the recognition. Columbus AFB was recognized state-wide for its outstanding work in urban forestry by the Mississippi Forestry Commission and the Mississippi Urban Forest Council. Trees play a vital role in maintaining the environmental quality throughout the state.

There are many benefits provided by trees that we take for granted. These include economic enhancements, social and environmental benefits and aesthetic value. Trees process storm water, aid against erosion and reduce the severity of flooding. They also provide shade during southern summers, help reduce energy costs for homes and businesses as well as improve property values and overall quality of life.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Mississippi Forestry Commission and National Arbor Day Foundation and administered in the state by the Mississippi Urban Forest Council.