Erlanger was named a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management.
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of Public Works Director Peter Glenn and the City’s Beautification Task Force and Urban Forest Commission.
Mr. Glenn led the city in meeting the program’s four requirements: Tree Ordinance No. 2534 was passed on January 4, 2022, Mayor Fette proclaimed April 30, 2022 as Arbor Day in conjunction with Erlanger’s first Arbor Day event, Mr. Glenn worked with the city legislators to include projects in the Fiscal year 2023 budget, and lastly, the Urban Forestry Commission was created and first met on July 21, 2022.
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 Erlanger 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.”
Peter Glenn’s leadership and focus on collaboration were instrumental in driving Erlanger’s commitment to urban forest management. “Peter is our catalyst, said Jessica Fette, a member of the Urban Forest Commission. “He understands who he needs to pull in to make projects successful. His leadership has been crucial in promoting environmental stewardship and civic pride in Erlanger.”
If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, and extreme heat and flooding. Erlanger is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future.
More information on the program is available at https://www.arborday.org/programs/treecityusa.