By Martine Wolfe-Miller, PIO

MOUNT PLEASANT, SC (July 15, 2009) – The South Carolina Forestry Commission recognized Mount Pleasant’s commitment to urban forestry yesterday with the Tree City USA Award. SCFC coastal region urban forester Frances Waite congratulated town council for winning the prestigious designation again this year.

“The Town of Mount Pleasant has won the Tree City USA award for the past 20 years,” she said. “Tree City USA recognition from the National Arbor Day Foundation represents the long standing commitment of your town to sustainability and responsible stewardship."

In order to keep its privileged status of Tree City USA, Mount Pleasant must meet four standards including a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.

Since receiving the Tree City USA designation, The Town of Mount Pleasant has planted more than 4,500 trees, mostly live oaks. Last year, the Town beautified Porchers Bluff, Bowman and Muirhead roundabouts with more than 38 trees and palms including Sabel palmetto, live oak, red cedar, devilwood and yaupon holly. Staff also planted more than 268 trees and palms in the north area of Mount Pleasant, the Mount Pleasant Senior Center, Wingo Way, Kearns Park and the Mount Pleasant welcome sign on I-526.

The Tree Program is sponsored in cooperation with the National Association of State Forestry and the USDA Forest Service and promotes Mount Pleasant’s philosophy of beautification and property improvement through the use of tree conservation and management. “The trees planted today actually cool and serve to further improve the appearance of the town for years to come. They increase property values, help clean the air and water, conserve energy, provide wildlife habitat and buffer our properties from high winds,” said Bernard.

For additional information on the Tree City USA and tree programs, contact Eddie Bernard at (843) 884-1229 or visit us online at www.townofmountpleasant.com