Mayor Rory Rowland | City of Independence
Mayor Rory Rowland | City of Independence
Independence Power & Light (IPL) was highlighted for its dedication to urban forestry during the Arbor Day celebration on April 26 at the Uptown Market's Garden Faire. IPL was awarded the Tree Line USA Award by the Arbor Day Foundation for the 26th consecutive year. This accolade recognizes utilities that adhere to best practices in tree care, including correct pruning, planting, educational efforts for employees and the public, and community tree investments.
Chuck Conner from the Missouri Department of Conservation presented the award to IPL Tree Trimming Superintendent Michael Adams. The event was led by Tree Commission President David Campbell, and Councilmember Heather Wiley delivered the official Arbor Day proclamation.
The celebration included distributing hundreds of free tree saplings by the Missouri Department of Conservation. IPL also organized a drawing, giving away six large trees to attendees.
A notable feature of the event was Smokey Bear, who joined the festivities to mark his 81st birthday and posed for photos with guests. City officials expressed their gratitude to the community for its support of trees, conservation, and environmental education.
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