Laurel Receives Statewide Community Forestry Award
Posted on: August 11, 2016
The City of Laurel was recognized as the Scenic Community of Mississippi for 2016. Each year a community is recognized for its efforts in maintaining a healthy community tree program. Laurel was recognized at the 2016 Statewide Urban Forestry Awards, July 29, 2016 at the Statewide Urban Forestry and Green Infrastructure Conference in Gulfport, Mississippi. Since 1982, the awards are sponsored by the Mississippi Urban Forest Council and the Mississippi Forestry Commission. Walt Grayson, host of Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s Mississippi Roads, recently noted the beauty and historic importance of Laurel.
“The City of Laurel continues to demonstrate their care and appreciation of community trees and landscapes attracting both visitors and commerce to the city. Laurel is the oldest Tree City USA in Mississippi. For the past 34 years, Laurel has participated as a nationally certified Tree City USA. Laurel citizens play an important role in the “livability and charm” of this vital Mississippi community.”
Reageana accepts award on behalf of the City of Laurel.
Laurel was given special recognition for their work in urban forestry. The contributions to community forestry includes tree plantings in city parks and schools and informational workshops by the Laurel Tree Board.
“Trees play an important part in the quality and growth of all communities, urban and rural. Trees in our towns provide many benefits including economic enhancements, social benefits, and aesthetic value. Trees process storm water and reduce flooding, while providing shade during southern summers to reduce energy costs as well as improving property values and quality of life,” according to the Mississippi Urban Forest Council’s execute director, Donna Yowell.
The Mississippi Urban Forest Council is a statewide nonprofit organization assisting communities with implementing local tree programs. The Council offers a variety of programs to educate volunteers and community leaders on every aspect of community forestry and provides assistance with grants for local projects. For more information on community and urban forestry in Mississippi contact the Mississippi Urban Forest Council, executive director, Donna Yowell, (601) 672-0755 or visit the website here.