The Arbor Day Foundation announced on April 13 that Tavares has been named a 2025 Tree City USA in recognition of its efforts to plant, grow, and maintain trees for the benefit of its community.
The Tree City USA designation highlights the importance of urban forestry and encourages communities to improve their environments through tree planting and care. The program is now in its 50th year, marking five decades of promoting healthier and more resilient cities across the country.
“For five decades, Tree City USA has rallied passionate local leaders to enhance the livability and sustainability of their communities. Tree champions like Tavares are leading the way in a growing movement to shape a better future with trees and action,” said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities. We’re proud Tavares is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees play an important role in mitigating urban heat islands, reducing stormwater runoff, improving air quality, and supporting both mental and physical health. When planted strategically, they can also reduce noise from traffic, increase property values, and help lower energy costs for homeowners.
To receive this recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation’s program—which operates in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service—a city must meet four core standards: maintaining a tree board or department; having a community tree ordinance; spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry; and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.
The foundation describes itself as a global nonprofit with over one million supporters worldwide who have helped plant more than half a billion trees across more than sixty countries over fifty years.
