The City of Ottumwa was recently honored with the 2019 Tree City USA Growth Award. Every year the Urban Forestry Awards recognizes cities, college campuses and utilities that demonstrate a variety of dedication to the importance of trees in their community. All awards are presented on behalf of the Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. This is the 30th year for the awards. The Urban Forestry Award luncheon, originally scheduled for April 2, was cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns.
To receive the award, a city must, at a minimum, provide education and public relations; partnerships; planning and management; and tree planting and maintenance in their communities.
