Grand Forks AFB named Tree City USA® by the Arbor Day Foundation Published April 8, 2009 By 020409 GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE, N.D. -- Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D., has been named a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to community forestry. It is the 16th year Grand Forks AFB has received this national recognition. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Grand Forks AFB has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community: having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. Communities that receive Tree City USA recognition not only have taken the time to meet these four standards, they recognize that: Trees promote healthier communities. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles. Trees moderate climate, conserve water and provide habitat for wildlife. Trees in urban areas reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings. Properly placed trees can increase property values, and buildings in wooded areas rent more quickly and tenants stay longer. "A community ... and its citizens that provide needed care for its trees deserves recognition and thanks," said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees are a vital component of the infrastructure in our cities and towns, and they also provide environmental and economical benefits. Cities that are recognized with a Tree City USA designation go to great lengths to plant and care for the community forest." More information about Tree City USA can be found at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.