For the 22nd consecutive year, the City of Knoxville has been designated a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation.

The distinction is for 2012 and recognizes cities that make the planting and care of trees a priority. Knoxville's Tree Board was recently named Tree Board of the year and hosted the state Arbor Day celebration on March 1. Arbor Day is celebrated nationally on April 26.

In announcing the honor, John Rosenow, founder and chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, said: "Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Knoxville make smart investments in urban forests. Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits."

Knoxville achieved Tree City USA status by meeting the Arbor Day Foundation's four requirements: a tree board or department; a tree-care ordinance; an annual community forestry budget or at least $2 per capita; and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

"It is an honor to be named a Tree City USA," said David Brace, the City's Public Service Director. "Cleaner air, improved storm water management and increased property values are all possible as a result of proper tree plantings. Not to mention, trees add such natural beauty to our landscape."

The Public Service Department, with urban forester Kasey Krouse, cares for all trees on City-owned property. Krouse has implemented several programs ranging from species diversification to proper soil volume for tree plantings.