Carmel was named a 2021 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for its continued commitment to creating a community that places unique value on the planting and caring of trees. Much of Carmel’s beauty is derived from street trees.
Dan Lambe, Arbor Day Foundation Chief Executive said, “This dedication to urban forestry shows Carmel’s residents and peers that the city is forward-thinking and eager to combat the issues that cities and towns worldwide, are facing when it comes to air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being and energy use.”
Carmel achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: Forming a tree board or department, creating a tree-care ordinance, having an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of Foresters.
The City of Carmel’s Urban Forestry team, led by Environmental Planner, Daren Mindham, also includes Urban Forester Todd Gillian and Urban Forestry Specialist Nichole Speth.
There are many benefits to planting trees in an urban space including the reduction of energy consumption by up to 25 percent, which will ultimately help with the overall cooling of the city. Members of the community benefit from properly placed trees as they increase property values from seven to 20 percent. Trees also positively affect the local ecosystem by helping to clean water and create animal habitats.
More information on the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.