For the 23rd consecutive year, Issaquah has been named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.
Issaquah achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
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.
"Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Issaquah make smart investments in urban forests," said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits."
Issaquah has been a Tree City USA since 1992. Citywide, 47.7 percent of Issaquah is covered by tree canopy.