By Maggie Lee

“The ‘Tree City USA’ designation is a product of our city council and citizens’ commitments to a greener, healthier community, and I was glad to be part of bringing it to Milton,” said Mark Law, arborist. “This ceremony will serve as a great example of how our residents care for their environment and are willing to put in the work for a more beautiful home for our firefighters.”

Law and Milton’s Tree Committee, a volunteer organization, kick off Arbor Day March 20 at Fire Station No. 41 on Arnold Mill Road.

A “Tree City USA” city must meet four standards to receive the prestigious award: Establish a Tree Board or Department, a Tree Care Ordinance, a community Forestry Program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

Milton’s ceremony, a product of the Tree Committee volunteers and Law, begins at 10 a.m. and lasts until noon on Sunday. The fire station will receive new trees planted by the volunteers in the front and year yards of the building. The Georgia Forestry Commission will be on hand to give the city its “Tree City USA” award and raise a flag commemorating the city’s dedication to tree preservation.

Numerous reasons stated on The Arbor Day Foundation’s website are cause enough to join in the festivities. “Helps present the kind of image that most citizens want to have for the place they live or conduct business” and “Tells visitors, through signage, that here is a community that cares about its environment” are but two.

But also, free bare root tree seedlings will be available for those wishing to increase their own commitment to natural beauty, Law stated. The destination, then everyone, is Arnold Mill Road — Fire Station No. 41, this Sunday, March 20, 10 a.m.!