From staff reports
The City of Franklin was named a 2020 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective community forest management.
Franklin is one of more than 3,600 Tree City USA communities, with a combined population of 155 million. 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.
Members of the Franklin Shade Tree Commission plan where to plant trees along city streets and in public parks and playgrounds. They also approve the removal of dead, dying, and diseased trees.
“Tree City USA communities see the impact of community forest first hand,” said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The trees being planted and cared for by Franklin are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life,” Lambe said.
In recognition of the many benefits of trees, Franklin Mayor Doug Baker has proclaimed April 30 as Arbor Day in the city. The proclamation declares that “trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community.”
