Lee’s Summit was recently named a 2017 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation’s commitment to effective urban forest management.

“Tree City USA communities see the impact an urban forest has in a community first hand,” Dan Lambé, president of Arbor Day Foundation, said. “Additionally, recognition brings residents together and creates a sense of community pride.”

Lee’s Summit achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four criteria: A tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

“We are pleased to be named a Tree City USA for the 14th year,” Joe Snook, LSPR Administrator, said. “This is a collaborative effort between LSPR, the Beautification Commission and the City of Lee’s Summit. Trees help contribute to our quality of life by positively impacting air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, and energy use. We thank the Arbor Day Foundation for this recognition and we look forward to continuing our efforts to improve Lee’s Summit’s urban forest.”

Trees provide multiple benefits to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.

For more information about Lee’s Summit’s award, contact LSPR at (816) 969-1500.