Peachtree City awarded 2024 Tree City USA designation by Arbor Day Foundation

The Peachtree City Council meeting on December 19, 2024, celebrated significant achievements in urban forestry, highlighting the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The meeting featured the presentation of two prestigious awards: the Tree City USA designation from the Arbor Day Foundation and the 2024 Outstanding Community Grand Award from the Georgia Tree Council.

Bob Warner, the city’s urban forestry program manager, announced that Peachtree City has officially been recognized as a Tree City USA for 2024. This designation reflects the city’s dedication to enhancing its urban forest's beauty, health, and sustainability. Warner emphasized that this achievement is the result of collaborative efforts among the city council, staff, residents, and volunteers, all working towards a greener community.

Warner explained that the city’s success in attaining this award stems from a three-pronged approach to tree preservation. This includes robust ordinances to protect trees during new developments, a permitting process for tree removal on private property, and a dedicated budget of over $300,000 annually for tree planting and maintenance. The establishment of the urban forestry program manager position was also highlighted as a key factor in achieving these goals.

In addition to the Tree City USA designation, Peachtree City received the Outstanding Community Grand Award for its proactive urban forestry management. This award recognizes the city’s commitment to environmental well-being and the health of its tree canopy. The executive director of the Georgia Tree Council commended Peachtree City for its dedication to good urban forestry practices and the creation of the urban forestry manager role.

The meeting concluded with a photo opportunity to commemorate the awards, showcasing the pride of the council and city officials in their accomplishments. These recognitions not only celebrate Peachtree City’s efforts in urban forestry but also set a standard for community engagement and environmental stewardship.