Tree City U.S.A.

Sun shines through mature trees in Buxton Park in Indianola, Iowa

The National Arbor Day Foundation recognizes U.S. communities that have developed comprehensive forestry programs by awarding the Tree City U.S.A. designation. Indianola is proud to have been awarded the Tree City U.S.A. designation each year since 1994.


Establishment

Tree City U.S.A. began as a 1976 Bicentennial project co-sponsored by the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. The National league of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors are now co-sponsors as well.

Membership

To become a Tree City U.S.A., a community must meet four standards:

  • Establish a tree board or department
  • Maintain a community tree care ordinance
  • Create a comprehensive community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita
  • Participate in Arbor Day observance and proclamation

Annual Certification

Communities must reapply for certification annually. Indianola is proud to have been awarded the Tree City U.S.A. designation each year since 1994.