For the 30^th year, the City of Rehoboth Beach has been named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.

The city also received a Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating environmental improvement and a higher level of tree care. Rehoboth Beach was one of two communities so recognized in Delaware.

“Rehoboth is, of course, best known for our beaches,” said city arborist Liz Lingo in a statement, “but we also are committed to the maintenance and enhancement of the tree canopy as a key component of our vibrant community.”

Rehoboth Beach achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements, including having: a tree board or department, tree-care ordinance, annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. Nationwide, more than 3,400 communities have been designated as a Tree City USA.

“Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand,” said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation in a statement. “The trees being planted and cared for by Rehoboth Beach are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education.”