SE Kansas City News

The City of Independence has been recognized as a Tree City USA for the 25th consecutive year by the Arbor Day Foundation, highlighting its dedication to tree planting and preservation.

The Tree City USA program, managed by the Arbor Day Foundation, honors cities that prioritize enhancing their community's quality of life through healthy tree initiatives.

"Trees are more than just part of our landscape — they are a vital part of our city’s health and future,” stated Mayor Rory Rowland. "Being named a Tree City USA once again shows our long-standing commitment to building a greener, more livable Independence for generations to come."

Independence qualified for the designation by fulfilling four specific requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree ordinance, sustaining an annual community forestry budget of $2 per capita, and observing Arbor Day with a proclamation.

"Urban forestry is an investment in the well-being of our City, its people, and future," noted Morris Heide, Director of Parks and Recreation. He emphasized the essential role of trees beyond mere aesthetics, stating, "Trees are more than decoration in our parks and neighborhoods. They are vital, and our parks staff are dedicated to showing that through their work in planting, growing, and maintaining our trees."

The care for thousands of trees across public properties, parkways, and city parks is overseen by the Independence Parks and Recreation Department. The City's Tree Commission, which is made up of local volunteers, advises on policy and guides long-term tree planning.

"Our Commission is proud to support Independence's vision to increase and maintain the tree canopy," said Charlotte Olejko, Park Horticulturalist and City liaison to the Tree Commission. She added, "With every tree we plant or preserve, Independence will be a little cleaner, a little cooler, more resilient, and more inviting."

The significance of an urban tree canopy extends globally, as it is shown to mitigate pollution, reduce stormwater runoff, counteract heat island effects, and enhance community health.

Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation, praised the city: "We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Independence are leading the way. Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency, and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud Independence is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating a positive impact through trees."

For more information about the Tree City USA program and the Arbor Day Foundation, visit www.arborday.org.