It’s Arbor Day and we’re celebrating by announcing some good news! Cortlandt was named a 2023 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

“Tree City USA Communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The trees being planted and cared for by Cortlandt 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.”

If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, and extreme heat and flooding. Cortlandt is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future.

In honor of Arbor Day, our Parks division planted an Eastern redbud tree at Lake Meahagh located off Westchester Avenue in Verplanck.