Dunwoody, GA – February 1, 2024 – For the 12th year in a row, the City of Dunwoody is being recognized as a “Tree City USA” for its commitment to effective urban forest management. Dave Long, Urban and Community Forestry Specialist with the Georgia Forestry Commission, will join City leaders to celebrate the designation with a ceremonial tree planting on Georgia Arbor Day, Friday, February 16.

“We remain committed to protecting our tree canopy and finding new ways to enhance it,” said City of Dunwoody Arborist Amy Bledsoe. “Trees benefit our community by improving air quality, increasing property values, reducing stress levels, and providing wildlife with important habitats.”

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. Dunwoody achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance with a written proclamation.

“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 Dunwoody are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life.”

Since 2013, the City of Dunwoody has worked with Trees Atlanta and community volunteers to plant more than 2,000 trees in Dunwoody, including 125 during this year’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. The City is also participating in the Front Yard Tree Planting Program for the second year. Led by Trees Atlanta, the program gives residents a chance to have shade trees planted in their front yards at no cost to them.

Due to Georgia's ideal winter tree planting season, the third Friday in February is recognized as Arbor Day in Georgia. The City of Dunwoody will celebrate on February 16 with the ceremonial planting of a tree at 10 a.m. at Windwood Hollow Park, located at 4865 Lakeside Drive. Representatives from the Dunwoody City Council, Dunwoody Parks & Recreation Department, Dunwoody Community Development Department, and members of the Dunwoody Sustainability Committee will gather for the planting. Members of the community are also invited to join the celebration.

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For more information regarding the City of Dunwoody, please contact Jennifer Boettcher, Communications Director, at 470-352-2959 or email.