The City of Santee, for the 22nd consecutive year, was named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.

Santee 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. The City of Santee meets these requirements through its Santee Park and Recreation Committee, Ordinance No. 473, the City’s annual community forestry budget $3.64 per capita.

“Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Santee make smart investments in urban forests,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation.

“Trees provide many benefits for the Santee community,” said Sam Rensberry, the City of Santee’s publicservices manager. “Most importantly, they provide shade and cool areas along with fresh air and increased property values. Mature trees in the urban landscape will also reduce traffic speeds and calm the senses while provide spring flowers, fall colors and tall evergreen canopies.”

Trees are assets to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants, and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.

Residents are also encouraged to participate in the Street Tree Program.

Santee residents can get a free tree planted by the City of Santee if their house has a parkway. The City will trim the tree every four years for residents as well.

Interested residents can call (619) 258-4100 x303 to learn more about the free Street Tree Program.

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