City of Sandy Springs Celebrates Arbor Day with Two Awards Recognizing the City's Tree Canopy

Aerial views of Sandy Springs resemble a spring lawn, reflecting the City's lush tree canopy. The City's commitment to tree preservation, care, and reforestation programs has earned Sandy Springs recognition on a national and global scale. The National Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Sandy Springs as a Tree City USA for the 12th consecutive year.

The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations also recently recognized the City as one of the 2020 Tree Cities of the World, joining 120 cities from 63 countries that are part of a global network leading the way in urban and community forestry. This is the City's second year receiving this distinction.

"As a community, we are extremely proud of our City's legendary tree canopy, often describing Sandy Springs as the city where skyscrapers rise from a forest of serene scenic beauty," said Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul.

"Now more than ever, trees and forests are a vital component of healthy, livable, and sustainable cities and towns around the globe. Sandy Springs's commitment to effective urban forest management is helping to ensure a better future for its residents," added Dan Lambe, President of the Arbor Day Foundation.

To receive a Tree City designation, a community must meet criteria set forth by the Arbor Day Foundation, which sets standards for proper management of forest resources. Urban forestry provides many benefits for a community, including attracting new businesses, jobs, and residents. Healthy community trees also provide clean air and water, wildlife habitats, shade, and support for stormwater management and community aesthetics.

For more information about Tree City USA, visit arborday.org/TreeCityUSA. For details about Tree Cities of the World, visit treecitiesoftheworld.org.