The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa DOT Forestry Bureau are proud to announce that the City of Dysart has received the Tree City USA Award for the 26th consecutive year and the prestigious Tree City USA Growth Award for the 23rd year at the 24th annual Urban Urban Forestry Awards Luncheon, held at the Stoney Creek Inn in Johnston on April 3, 2014. The City of Dysart has received the Growth Award longer than any other city in Iowa.

State Forestry Paul Taukke commented, “The Tree City USA Growth award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees.” The City of Dysart has provided an outstanding example for other Iowa communities by enhancing our forest resources and demonstrating the great value of trees in providing multiple benefits for future generations. Dysart was one of 16 Iowa communities to qualify for the Growth award status in 2013. To receive the award, a city must meet four minimum requirements in the following categories; 1) Education and Public Relations, 2) Partnerships, 3) Planning and Management, and 4) Tree Planting and Maintenance.

Thirteen Dysart Tree Board members and volunteers attended the luncheon. A proud highlight of the day was the awarding of an Outstanding Youth Forestry Project in Iowa to members of the LaPorte City-Dysart FFA Chapter and their instructor for their orchard and garden project at LaPorte City.