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 more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries since 1972.
The Tree City USA program has recognized cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the
livability and sustainability of their local area for over 40 years.

"We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like PRESCOTT are leading the way,"
said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees are critical
infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud
PRESCOTT 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. 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.

Mayor Terry Oliver commented on the City of Prescott’s Arbor Day Celebration.

“For years, the City of Prescott has supported Arbor Day here in town by simply planting a tree. This
tradition, though simple, carries a powerful meaning and serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility
to care for the environment. Arbor Day gives us an opportunity not only to plant trees, but to reflect on
the role they play in our daily lives. Trees provide shade, improve air quality, support wildlife, and
enhance the beauty of our community. They stand as quiet witnesses to the passage of time, growing
stronger year after year and benefiting generations far beyond those who first placed them in the ground.
I encourage each of you to take part-please go plant a tree. Whether in your yard, at a local park, or as part
of a community effort, every tree planted is a step toward a healthier, more vibrant Prescott. Just like the
trees we plant, we are only visitors here, guests of the Earth. What we do today leaves a lasting impact on
those who come after us. Take a moment to consider the legacy you wish to leave behind. A single tree
may seem small, but over time it becomes a source of comfort, shelter, and life. It becomes part of
someone's memory, someone's childhood, or someone's place of rest. As the saying goes, someone is
sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree years ago. Let us continue that legacy for future
generations by planting not just trees, but hope and care for our community.”

To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards including maintaining a tree
board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban
forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.

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. To learn more about the program or how to
apply, visit arborday.org.

The City of Prescott would also like to announce that the Arkansas Forestry Commission will be at the
Prescott City Hall on April 17 th , from 9 -11 a.m. They will be handing out variety packs of 6-12 trees per
pack to celebrate Arbor Day in Prescott and Nevada County. The cultivation of trees is the cultivation of
the good, the beautiful and the uplifting of man.