The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources – Forestry Bureau are proud to announce that the City of Newton has received the 2013 Tree City USA award 24th Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon, held at the Stoney Creek Inn on April 3, 2014.
State Forester Paul Tauke commented, “The Tree City USA award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees.” The City of Newton 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.
Newton was one of 70 Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City USA status. To receive the award a city must meet four minimum requirements: 1) The city must possess either a city forester or an active city tree board, 2) The city must have a tree ordinance, 3) The city must annually spend at least $2 per capita for its community forestry program