The North Carolina Forest Service announced on March 10 that 73 communities, 12 campuses, and five utilities have received the 2025 Tree City USA, 2025 Tree Campus Higher Education, and 2026 Tree Line USA designations. The announcement coincides with North Carolina’s observance of Arbor Day, which takes place the first Friday after March 15.
These awards recognize efforts in urban forestry management across cities, higher education institutions, and utility companies. The Tree City USA program provides a framework for community forestry management by requiring cities and towns to meet four core standards of sound urban forestry practices.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said, “Planting trees to conserve and enhance the sustainable management of urban forests doesn’t have to only take place on Arbor Day. Communities, higher education campuses and utility companies who maintain a tree board or committee, have a tree plan, practice quality tree care and hold an Arbor Day celebration are doing their part to contribute to the long list of benefits that human and wildlife habitats depend on. I would love to see more join in the effort.”
In addition to these recognitions, Concord, Davidson, Gastonia, and Wilmington were awarded the Tree City USA Growth Award for 2025. This award is available to communities previously designated as a Tree City that demonstrate further efforts in strengthening their urban forestry programs.
Colleges and universities can earn Tree Campus Higher Education accolades by engaging students and their communities in tree care initiatives. Utility companies may receive Tree Line USA honors if they meet specific utility tree management standards while involving local communities.
The North Carolina Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry program manages the application process for these awards. Staff are available to assist landowners with forest management as well as help communities develop Arbor Day celebrations where these awards are often presented.
