Col. Falls named Tree City USA

Columbia Falls has been named a 2016 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for the city’s commitment to effective urban forest management.

The city 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 at least $2 per capita; and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

Trees provide multiple benefits to a community when properly planted and maintained, Foundation President Dan Lambe said. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, removed air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat,among other benefits.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million member nonprofit conservation and education organization.