The North Carolina Forest Service announced on March 10 that 73 communities, 12 campuses, and five utilities have received the 2025 Tree City USA, 2025 Tree Campus Higher Education, and 2026 Tree Line USA designations. The announcement coincides with North Carolina’s observance of Arbor Day, which takes place the first Friday after March 15.
These awards recognize efforts by cities, colleges, and utility companies to promote sustainable urban forestry management. Recipients are acknowledged for maintaining tree boards or committees, developing tree plans, practicing quality tree care, and holding Arbor Day celebrations.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said, “Planting trees to conserve and enhance the sustainable management of urban forests doesn’t have to only take place on Arbor Day. Communities, higher education campuses and utility companies who maintain a tree board or committee, have a tree plan, practice quality tree care and hold an Arbor Day celebration are doing their part to contribute to the long list of benefits that human and wildlife habitats depend on. I would love to see more join in the effort.”
The communities of Concord, Davidson, Gastonia, and Wilmington were also awarded the Tree City USA Growth Award for 2025. This recognition is given to communities that have previously been designated as a Tree City USA and demonstrates additional efforts in strengthening their urban forestry programs.
The NCFS Urban and Community Forestry program manages the application process for these awards. Staff members assist landowners with forest management as well as help communities develop Arbor Day celebrations where these honors are presented.
More information about North Carolina Forest Service urban forestry programs can be found at www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-forest-service/urban.
