ABOUT URBAN FORESTRY

The City of Marion's Urban Forestry Division operates within the City's Parks and Recreation Department and is dedicated to the professional practice, cultivation and management of the community’s urban tree population.  There are more than 5,700 public trees identified in the community tree inventory and staff work with hundreds each year to address trimming, removals, pest and disease concerns and promote overall tree health and condition.  

Public trees bring many benefits to the urban landscape including increased property values, reduced air and noise pollution, storm water collection and erosion prevention.  Trees promote lower energy costs by shading structures from the summer sun and buffering from cold winter winds.  Many studies show statistics supporting urban trees where they modify the local climate, add beauty and diversity, increase economic stability, and even improve mental and physical health.

Trees are a sustainability power tool and provide more than just an aesthetic perk in the urban setting.  More like another form of green infrastructure, trees are equally as important as any other types of the public foundation, such as roads, sidewalks, buildings, water supply, energy grids, institutions, parks and trail systems.  Without the natural impact of trees a community can fall short of its full potential to provide for residents.  Marion is committed to a new approach to design healthier and happier spaces that allow daily connection to the natural world.

CONTACT US

Mike Cimprich, City Arborist
319-447-3580

TREE CITY USA

The Arbor Day Foundation and the Tree City USA program has been greening up cities and towns across America since 1976. It is a nationwide movement that provides the framework necessary for communities to manage and expand their public trees.

Recognized communities have achieved Tree City USA status by meeting four core standards of sound urban forestry management:

• Maintaining a tree board or department
• Having a community tree ordinance
• Spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry
• Celebrating Arbor Day

The Tree City USA Growth Award is awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation to recognize higher levels of tree care by participating Tree City USA communities. The Growth Award highlights innovative programs and projects as well as increased commitment of resources for urban forestry. It also provides an opportunity to share new ideas and successes across the country.

Marion has been Recognized as a Tree City USA community since 1993, and additionally receiving the Growth Award each year since.

OTHER RESOURCES

Trees Forever
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
Arbor Day Foundation
International Society of Arboriculture
Iowa Arborist Association