Springfield and Worcester were honored for meeting state standards for tree care for 25 years.
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield was honored Wednesday for planting and protecting trees for the last 25 years.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno was presented the 25 Year Tree City award by the state Department of Conservation and Recreation during a ceremony at the Barney Carriage House in Forest Park.
The award recognized the dedication of city Forester Edward C. Casey and the city’s long-term commitment to planting and preserving trees, Sarno said.
Springfield and Worcester were honored for meeting state standards in the 25 year category, while Holyoke and Longmeadow were recognized in the 10-year group, along with Ludlow winning in the 5-year category.
To qualify, cities must have a department devoted to tree care; must earmark money each year for urban forestry; must enforce laws protecting public trees and must host an Arbor Day celebration.
The awards are sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, a non-profit devoted to promoting and preserving trees nationwide.
Three utilities – Chicopee Electric Co., National Grid and NStar – also received the Tree Line USA awards for meeting standards in tree care, worker training, tree planting and educational programs.
Patrick Sullivan, director of Parks, Facilities and Recreational Management, said the city is pleased to be recognized for 25 years of tree planting and protecting along city streets.
The city plans to continue street tree plantings in neighborhoods across the city, Sullivan said.
“The city takes great pride in ensuring we maintain our street trees to high standards,” Sullivan said.