Arbor Day: Issaquah Recognized (Again) as a Tree City USA

April 10 is Arbor Day, and this year, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is recognizing 82 cities, including Issaquah for the 19th year, that have been chosen as a Tree City USA.

The DNR recognizes cities that earn the Tree City USA title for their efforts in keeping urban forests healthy and vibrant, according to a post on their website.

Issaquah has the 8th-oldest Tree City distinction in the state (tied with Olympia, Everett and Clyde Hill). Ellensburg is the state's oldest participating Tree City is Ellensburg, 29 years running. Sammamish is not among the cities named on the list named as a Tree City.

There are community events throughout the state during the month of April to celebrate Arbor Day. To be acknowledged as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, a city must designate staff to care for trees, appoint a citizen tree board to advocate for community forestry, establish a tree ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on tree care, and celebrate Arbor Day.

To learn how to properly plant and care for new trees, visit the International Society of Arboriculture website at www.treesaregood.com.