The City of Marion was recently honored with the 2024 Tree City USA Growth Award at the 34th Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon in Ankeny. The award was presented by the Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on April 3 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. 

“The Tree City USA award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees,” said State Forester Jeff Goerndt. “Your community 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.”

Marion was one of 25 Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City USA Growth Award status. To receive the award, a city must, at a minimum, have either a city forester or an active city tree board; have a tree ordinance; spend at least $2 per capita annually for its community forestry program; and have a tree planting and maintenance plan.  

Marion has achieved Tree City USA status consistently since 1993 and has received the Growth Award since 1994.