For the 11th year, the Arbor Day Foundation has named the City of Dahlonega Tree City USA community for its commitment to community forestry.

On Friday, February 17, at 11:00 AM, members of the city's Tree Board, city officials, the Georgia Forestry Commission, the Georgia Mountain Master Gardeners Association and interested citizens will gather in the Choice Avenue parking lot for a tree planting and proclamation reading to honor Arbor Day. The Choice Avenue parking lot is located at the intersection of Choice Avenue & South Meaders Street in Downtown Dahlonega.

This year's tree is being donated by the Georgia Mountain Master Gardeners Association.

The Arbor Day ceremony reminds the community of the importance of maintaining the city's trees for economic, ecological, and aesthetic value. Since its beginning, the Tree City USA program has grown nationwide to be the leading community forestry recognition in the United States.

In order to be a Tree City, a community must meet four standards, including having a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.

Along with those criteria, the tree cities also recognize that:
- Trees promote healthier communities. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles.
- Trees moderate climate, conserve water and provide habitat for wildlife.
- Trees in urban areas reduce the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings.
- Properly placed trees can increase property values and buildings in wooded areas rent more quickly and tenants stay longer.

Visit http://www.arborday.org/ for more Arbor Day Foundation information.