The Superior Express -

In mid-March the City of Formoso received notice from the Arbor Day Foundation that they were awarded Tree City USA for the 35th year. This award covered the activities and tree care in 2019.

Formoso 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 a least two dollars per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The City of Formoso does not hire people to take care of the park and street trees, etc. Care and work falls to the tree board members and other volunteers. In 2019 at least 200 hours were put in by volunteers.

In getting ready for the city’s Fun Day celebration held on Sept. 28, eight voluntters donated nearly 83 hours of work, plus the use of trucks, tractors, saws and other equipment. Other tree trimming and removal, shrub planting, and watering was done through the year with volunteer labor and equipment.

Dan Lambe, president of Arbor Day Foundation stated, “Tree City USA communities see the impact an urban forest has in a community first hand. The trees being planted and cared for by Formoso are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionall, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civil pride whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education.”

The 2020 National Arbor Day as well as Kansas Arbor Day are scheduled for Friday. Each year in the past Formoso has had a celebration event on or near Arbor Day; however, with the coronavirus and limitations, there will not be an event this Spring. Even so, we are certainly proud of our achievements and award as Tree City USA.