Marshall has been recognized as a 2025 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, highlighting its ongoing efforts to plant, grow, and maintain trees for community benefit.
The Arbor Day Foundation is an international nonprofit that encourages tree planting and care. Since its founding, it has worked with more than one million supporters and partners to plant over 500 million trees in more than 60 countries. The Tree City USA program, now in its 50th year, honors cities that show dedication to urban forestry.
“For five decades, Tree City USA has rallied passionate local leaders to enhance the livability and sustainability of their communities. Tree champions like Marshall are leading the way in a growing movement to shape a better future with trees and action,” 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 Marshall is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”
Research shows that urban trees help reduce heat effects in cities, lower stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and support both mental and physical health. Properly placed trees can also decrease traffic noise, raise property values, and cut energy costs for homeowners.
To qualify for Tree City USA status, municipalities must meet four standards: maintain a tree board or department; have a community tree ordinance; spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry; and hold an annual Arbor Day celebration.
The Tree City USA program is run by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. More information about this initiative can be found at https://www.arborday.org/programs/.
The Arbor Day Foundation describes itself as a nonprofit aiming to inspire people worldwide to plant and nurture trees. With over one million participants globally since its founding more than 50 years ago, it continues work toward what it calls “a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees.” Further details are available at https://www.arborday.org/.
