Pictured receiving the award in Des Moines are (front row, L to R): Joanne Ternus, Ruth Schafbuch, Debi Miller, Susan Fuchs, Catharine Wieck. Back row: Heath Ellis (President of the Urban Tree Council), Lyle Ternus, Al Schafbuch, Erich Fuchs, Paul Tauke (State Forester).

The City of Dysart was recently honored with the 2015 Tree City USA Growth Award at the 26th Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon in Des Moines. The award was presented by the Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Forestry Bureau April 7 at the Forte Banquet & Conference Center.

“The Tree City USA award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees,” says state forester Paul Tauke. “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 18 Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City USA Growth status. To receive the award, a city must, at a minimum, provide education and public relations; partnerships; planning and management; and tree planting and maintenance in their communities.