City of Waukon receives Tree City USA designation

The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Forestry Bureau has announced that the City of Waukon received the 2012 Tree City USA award at the 23rd Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon held at the Stoney Creek Inn April 2 in Johnston. State Forester Paul Tauke commented, “The Tree City USA award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees. The City of Waukon has provided an outstanding example for other Iowa communities, by enhancing our forest resources and demonstrating the great value of trees in providing multiple benefits for future generations."
Waukon was one of 77 Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City USA status. To receive the award a city must meet four minimum requirements: 1) The city must possess either a city forester or an active city tree board; 2) The city must have a tree ordinance; 3) The city must annually spend at least $2 per capita for its community forestry program. Pictured above at the award presentation are, left to right, Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Chuck Gipp, Dr. Ken Olson of the Waukon Trees Forever chapter, and State Forester Paul Tauke. Submitted photo.