Gardnerville named Tree City USA in time for Earth and Arbor days

For the 20^th year the Town of Gardnerville has been named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation.

Earth Day’s leafy cousin is April 28 this year, and the town is celebrating by planting two London plane trees in Gardner Park off Bell Street.

Town Arborist Geoffrey LaCost said Girl Scout Troop 287 will help planning the trees.

“The trees can have a lifespan of several hundred years and could grow up to 100 feet tall,” he said.

Gardnerville achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements:

maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

'Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand," said Foundation Chief Executive Dan Lambe. "The trees being planted and cared for by Gardnerville are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy to a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it's through volunteer engagement or public education."

Nevada’s oldest town will be hosting an Arbor Day celebration by planting a blue spruce in the Genoa Town Park 10 a.m. April 28. It will also be the first day of Western Heritage Days.