Mayor Bill Saffo helped local children plant a Dogwood Tree at the Sunset Park Elementary School on April 25, which was National Arbor Day. The NC Forestry Service donated 500 trees to give away to those attending the event.

Wilmington has been named a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation for the fifth consecutive year. The Mayor will be presented with the award at the May 6 Council Meeting. To become a Tree City USA, a community must meet four standards: a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.

In addition, Wilmington received the prestigious Tree City USA Growth Award for the third year in a row. This award recognizes efforts to improve the environment with trees and maintain a high level tree program.

Click here for more information on City Parks & Urban Forestry.