MARLBORO, NJ — In honor of its commitment to plant, grow, and maintain trees that benefit the community, Marlboro Township has been named a 2025 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, Mayor Jonathan Hornik recently announced.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.
Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant over 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries.
The foundation's Tree City USA program is now celebrating its 50th recognition season, underscoring the program's “rich history of growing healthier, greener, and more resilient communities through urban forestry.”
“It’s an honor for Marlboro to be recognized,” Hornik said. “We have an amazing team here at the Shade Tree Committee and Community Garden who work hard and dedicate their time to maintain the beauty of the arboretum and garden.”
For five decades, Tree City USA has rallied passionate local leaders to enhance the livability and sustainability of their communities, according to Michelle Saulnier, the Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation.
“Tree champions like Marlboro are leading the way in a growing movement to shape a better future with trees and action," Saulnier said. "Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation's cities.”
“We're proud Marlboro is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees."
In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health, officials said.
When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners.
"In conjunction with the Marlboro Shade Tree Committee, we honor the spirit of Arbor Day with not only words but deeds,” said Ellen Simonetti, the chair of the Marlboro Shade Tree Committee.
“Every year, our town donates a tree to the Marlboro Arboretum to be planted for Arbor Day," Simonetti continued. "A small army of volunteers makes sure our trees are cared for and protected.”
To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards, including:
The Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
Additional information about services and programs can be found on the township website.
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