Penfield earns Tree City USA Recognition for commitment to urban forestry

Penfield, New York – Town Supervisor Jeff Leenhouts proudly announced that Penfield has officially earned the Tree City USA designation from the Arbor Day Foundation, marking a significant milestone in the town’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The designation highlights Penfield’s dedication to maintaining and protecting its public trees, reinforcing efforts to create a greener, healthier community.

The recognition comes after years of planning and policy development aimed at fostering a sustainable urban forestry program. It also aligns with Penfield’s long-term vision, as outlined in the 2023 Town of Penfield Comprehensive Plan Update, to promote responsible tree care and environmental stewardship.

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A Milestone for Penfield’s Green Initiatives

To receive the Tree City USA designation, Penfield had to meet several key criteria. These included forming a tree board or department, adopting a Public Trees Law in September 2024, maintaining an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and holding an Arbor Day observance. The town also designated the Department of Public Works as the lead agency responsible for tree management, working closely with other departments and community partners.

The town’s Arbor Day celebration, first held in April 2024, will return in 2025 on April 26, reinforcing Penfield’s ongoing commitment to tree conservation and education.

Looking Ahead: More Green Spaces in 2025

With the Tree City USA status in place, Penfield is now eligible for exclusive forestry grants and programs through the Arbor Day Foundation, which will help expand and enhance its tree-planting initiatives.

In 2025, the town will continue its annual tree planting program, focusing on several key locations, including:

• Rothfuss Park, near the box lacrosse field
• Sherwood Fields, in the rear portion of the park
• Shadow Pines, at the newly created berm in the northeast corner

These planned plantings will contribute to the town’s goal of strengthening its green spaces for future generations.

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Supervisor Leenhouts: A Community Effort

Supervisor Jeff Leenhouts emphasized the importance of this recognition, thanking those who contributed to achieving this milestone.

“This is a great accomplishment for our community, and I want to thank everyone who played a part in helping us achieve this designation. Trees play an important role in the quality of life for residents and the health of our environment. We are excited to add additional plantings in 2025 that will continue to strengthen our green spaces for generations to come.”

With this designation, Penfield joins approximately 3,500 municipalities across the country that have committed to urban forestry efforts. The town’s leadership sees this as just the beginning, with plans to further enhance tree conservation efforts in the years ahead.

For more information about the Tree City USA program and the Arbor Day Foundation, residents can visit the foundation’s website.