Stafford Named 2024 Tree City USA

STAFFORD, NJ — Stafford Township has been named a 2024 Tree City USA thanks to its efforts to plant, grow and maintain trees to benefit the community, the Arbor Day Foundation said in a news release.

The Arbor Day Foundation, a global nonprofit that encourages people to celebrate trees, has recognized cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area for more 50 years through their Tree City USA program.

“We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Stafford are leading the way,” said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities. We’re proud Stafford is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”

“This designation reflects our community’s dedication to preserving and enhancing our urban forest,” township officials said in sharing the news.

“A special thank you to the Stafford Township Environmental Commission for their hard work and commitment to responsible tree management and environmental stewardship,” officials said.

In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health, according to the Arbor Day Foundation. When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners, the Arbor Day Foundation said.