Long Hill Tree City Distinction
Submitted by Ann Cade
Guy Piserchia, mayor of Long Hill Township, the Township Committee, the Department of Public Works and the Long Hill Shade Tree Commission are delighted to announce that Long Hill Township is now a Tree City as of March 15, 2021. The Arbor Day Foundation grants this designation to a town which proves that it has a robust program in place to enhance the community by the care of their urban trees.
The Arbor Day Foundation states on its website that it requires four core Standards of sound urban forestry management: maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and celebrating Arbor Day.
With the cooperation and support of the Mayor and The Township Committee, The Shade Tree Commission and the Department of Public Works have worked tirelessly for years to promote the planting and care of Long Hill trees.
The Town Committee passed a tree ordinance in November 2020 and Long Hill celebrated Arbor Day on March 18, 2021. Long Hill had fulfilled all the requirements for Tree City, submitted an application and was accepted.
Why this emphasis on trees? Trees are beautiful and come in all shapes and sizes. Some bloom in the spring, some bloom in the summer. Some have fruit, berries or nuts. In autumn, trees can have vivid colors which complement the bright fall days. Evergreen are not as showy, but provide color during gray winter days.
Trees clean the air by removing dangerous gases and particulate matter. They release oxygen into the atmosphere. Trees slow water runoff and prevent soil erosion and sedimentation of streams. Trees buffer noise pollution and provide privacy for homeowners. Trees cool homes, streets and communities and provide shade from hot summer sun. Trees increase wildlife habitat by providing shelter and food for birds and small mammals. All in all, trees increase the value of the community and its homes.
Please look for the Tree City markers placed on entrances to Long Hill Township and celebrate our new designation as a Tree City.
