Chesterfield Joins Elite Group on Tree Management

The Arbor Day Foundation recognized Chesterfield as a Tree City USA Community, for a 15th year.

Chesterfield was also named a Sterling Tree City, after it won a Growth Award for a 10th year—one of four communities in the state of Missouri to win this standing. 

The other three are St. Louis in 2005, Branson in 2007, and St. Peters in 2009.

City spokeswoman Libbey Malberg-Tucker provided the following information about the award:

This year the city received the Growth Award in recognition of the forest ecosystem improvement efforts at Central Park, including the lake and stream walk areas. Activities include removal of invasive bush honeysuckle, and replanting of native forest species.

The Growth Award is given to communities that go beyond the four standards of Tree City USA by demonstrating improvement and growth in local tree management and care.

• there must be a board or department for which tree care is a primary responsibility, 
• there must be a community tree care ordinance, 
• there must be a comprehensive community forestry program, 
• there must be an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.  

The Growth Award recognizes achievement and continued improvement of community tree care.

These awards demonstrate Chesterfield's ongoing dedication to continually improve the community's natural resources, as well as the value this City places on preserving and enhancing our environment.

Patch columnist John Hoffmann contributed to this article.