The City of Indian Wells was named a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management.

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.

Indian Wells achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: 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.

“It brings me great joy to have Indian Wells named a Tree City by the Arbor Day Foundation. The City’s continued effort and dedication to create a shared vision truly paid off,” said Indian Wells Mayor Donna Griffith.

“Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Indian Wells make smart investments in urban forests,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits.”

Trees are assets 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.

More information on the program is available at ArborDay.org/TreeCityUSA.