Whispering Pines was named a 2023 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management.
Whispering Pines achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: maintaining a tree board, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.
“Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand,’ said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The trees being planted and cared for by Whispering Pines are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education.”
“If ever there was a time for trees, now is the time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, and extreme heat and flooding,” said The Village of Whispering Pines on its website. “Whispering Pines is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future.”
Feature photo by Sandhills Sentinel photographer Melissa Schaub.
Contributed.
