TCUSA Conference Vision Statement
Since 1976, Tree City USA has generated an extensive network of over 3,600 cities nationwide that are dedicated to building strong urban and community forestry programs. These cities are unified in that they apply for recognition in the program year after year, and the Arbor Day Foundation is in a unique position to develop deeper connections in and amongst Tree City USA’s. We can enhance the value that this network can provide to build even stronger urban and community forestry programs. We propose a Tree City USA Virtual Conference in early 2021 that will provide one-of-a-kind presentations, lectures and panels for individuals from Tree Cities.
The goals of the conference are three-fold. First, the conference will enable direct connections between Tree Cities for the first time and will offer Tree City USA communities a chance to share what successes and challenges they have encountered. They will learn from one another and communicate with aspirational urban and community forestry programs. The conference will also have content geared toward planning and technical support for Tree City USA standards and Growth Award criteria. Finally, the conference will be an opportunity for cities to have critical conversations that will enable the network to grow and scaffold urban and community forestry efforts worldwide.
The anticipated attendees for the conference will include urban foresters, Tree Board members, and others who are vital to maintaining Tree City USA status at the municipal level. We will likely offer the conference free as a benefit for cities that are recognized as a Tree City USA. We believe that this conference will be a new, innovative way to connect municipal foresters across the United States. Most importantly, a 2021 Tree City USA Virtual Conference will enhance the critical role that urban and community forestry plays to address climate change, environmental justice, and sustainable urban development.
