Kirkland has been named a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation to honor the City’s commitment to community forestry. It is the eighth year Kirkland has received this national recognition. In addition, the City is the recipient of a 2009 Growth Award for significant improvements to its tree program.

Last year, Kirkland improved its tree ordinance, became a state-certified Community Wildlife Habitat City, and assisting in providing continuing education for its forestry managers.

The Tree City USA program and the Growth Award are sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters, the USDA Forest Service, the US Conference of Mayors, and the National League of Cities. To become a Tree City USA, Kirkland must meet these standards: proclaim and celebrate Arbor Day, have a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, and a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita. Kirkland’s 2010 Arbor Day event will be held Saturday, November 13, at Juanita Bay Park.

Communities that receive Tree City USA recognition not only have provided the resources to meet these standards, they recognize that trees promote a healthier community, moderate climate, reduce heat in urban areas and can increase property values.

The City’s tree regulations provide for the protection, preservation, replacement, proper maintenance and use of significant trees throughout the City. In 2008, the City Council adopted a 20-Year Forest Restoration Plan that calls for the restoration of Kirkland’s natural areas. Much of the restoration is happening through the City’s volunteer network, the Green Kirkland Partnership.

To volunteer, contact Sharon Rodman, at Parks & Community Services Department at 425-587-3305.

For more information about Kirkland’s tree regulations, call Deb Powers, Urban Forester, Planning Department at 425-587-3235.

More information about Tree City USA go to Arbor Day.