Roanoke named 2024 Tree City USA by Arbor Day Foundation
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – Anyone familiar with the Roanoke Valley knows the area is well recognized for sprawling mountain landscapes and forests and outdoor activities. In true Roanoke fashion, the Arbor Day Foundation has named the city a 2024 Tree City USA for planting, growing, and maintaining trees.
'We all have a role to play in shaping our future, and tree champions like Roanoke are leading the way,' said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. 'Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency, and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud Roanoke is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating a positive impact through trees.'
The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit organization that inspires people to plant and grow trees, and over the last 40 years, the Tree City USA program has recognized cities and towns that enhance their livability and sustainability by planting trees.
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Arbor Day Foundation officials said trees have been proven to mitigate the effects of urban heat islands by improving mental and physical health, reducing stormwater runoff, improving air quality, reducing traffic noise, increasing property values, and lowering home energy costs.
'In the many years I've lived in Roanoke, I've come to appreciate just how deeply nature is rooted in our city's identity,' added Mayor Joe Cobb. 'Being named a Tree City USA again is not just an accolade — it's a reminder that every tree we plant is an investment in our people, our infrastructure, and our future.'
Arbor Day first started on April 10, 1872, in Nebraska to reforest parts of the Great Plains and give shelter to pioneers. The tradition is still celebrated today as a reminder and to preserve the natural beauty of parks and public lands, and support industries across the United States.
To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards, including maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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