Norman earns 2025 Tree City USA Recognition from Arbor Day Foundation

The City of Norman has once again been recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a 2025 Tree City USA community, marking the 23rd time the city has earned this distinction for its ongoing commitment to urban forestry.

This year's recognition is especially meaningful as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Tree City USA program, a nationwide initiative that has celebrated communities dedicated to maintaining and expanding their urban tree canopies for five decades.

The Tree City USA designation honors cities that demonstrate a strong commitment to planting, growing, and maintaining trees. Norman's continued investment in urban forestry highlights the City's dedication to environmental stewardship, public health, and overall quality of life.

"The Parks & Recreation Department is very excited to have helped Norman to be a Tree City for more than two decades," said Colin Zink, City Forester. "I have been the City Forester for the past four years, and get to see every day how much the residents of Norman love their trees! I'm proud of the work we have done together, and look forward to doing more in the future."

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees play a critical role in creating healthier, more resilient communities. In urban areas, they help reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, manage stormwater runoff, and support both physical and mental health. Properly placed trees can also lower energy costs, reduce noise pollution, and increase property values.

"We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Norman are leading the way," 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 Norman is among our growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees."

To earn Tree City USA recognition, communities must meet four core standards: maintaining a tree board or department, establishing a community tree ordinance, investing at least $2 per capita in urban forestry, and celebrating Arbor Day annually.

The Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.

For more information about the Tree City USA program, visit arborday.org.