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Scarborough Aims for Green Honors: The 'Tree City' Initiative
Scarborough, Maine, is on the path to becoming an officially designated “Tree City,” an honor that emphasizes community commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship. Recently, the Town Council took a significant step in this direction by adopting a tree care ordinance. This ordinance is crucial in regulating the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees, shrubs, and plants on town property and public rights of way. It also establishes a Tree Care Advisory Board tasked with crafting a list of desirable tree species, managing tree planting information, and guiding education programs linked to tree care.
Why Designation Matters: Benefits of Becoming a Tree City
Becoming a Tree City USA is not just a badge of honor; it brings numerous benefits. Recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service, this initiative underscores the importance of urban forestry for healthier communities. To achieve this designation, Scarborough must implement four essential requirements: maintain an active tree board, enact a tree ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on tree care activities, and formally observe Arbor Day. Currently, there are over 3,500 designated Tree Cities nationwide, fostering a collective responsibility for environmental care.
Community Voices: Protecting Scarborough's Green Heritage
The move to adopt the tree care ordinance has prompted thoughtful discussion among community members. Local resident Kate Bourdas of the Conservation Commission expressed concerns regarding the historical changes in Scarborough’s landscape, highlighting the shift from rural farms to suburban development. “People want to protect what they know,” she noted, emphasizing the ordinance’s role in preserving the town’s character.
The Ecological and Aesthetic Value of Trees
Supporters of the initiative, like Councilor Jon Anderson, advocate that trees significantly enhance community attractiveness and ecological health. Native trees provide beauty, shade, and erosion control, while also supporting local wildlife. Andrew Mackie of the Scarborough Land Trust emphasizes the interconnectedness that native species foster, stating that tree planting can become a keystone for broader ecological health across town lands.
Long-Term Green Goals for Future Generations
The establishment of a tree care advisory board aligns with Scarborough’s broader environmental objectives. The town has committed to conserving at least 30% of its land by 2030, aiming to bridge the current 1,898 acres from its goal. Environmental stewardship is not just a present concern; it’s about investing in the ecological quality of life for future generations.
Conclusion: Your Role in Supporting Scarborough's Goals
For homeowners, property managers, and newcomers in Scarborough, this initiative presents an opportunity to engage with the community’s green goals actively. As the town moves closer to its Tree City designation, consider how you can contribute—be it through planting trees, attending Arbor Day celebrations, or simply educating yourself on local tree care. Preserving the environment is a communal effort, and every little action counts toward Scarborough’s thriving, greener future.
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