Portland, Ore. – Recipients of the 2015 Oregon Urban and Community Forestry Awards were just announced by Oregon Community Trees (O.C.T.).
Tree City USA Award: City of Beaverton
The City of Beaverton turned an empty and unused lot on SW Allen Blvd and Alice Lane into an arboretum complete with informative signs. This beautiful, educational native tree and plant retreat will be enjoyed for generations to come. With the help of the Mayor, Friends of Trees and about 100 volunteers, the City has planted more than 100 native trees and plants, each species accompanied with a plaque identifying features and facts.
Individual Award: Todd Prager
Individual Award: Erik Burke
Partnership Award: Mark Azevedo, Ed Hodney, Gary Rogowski
Recipients of this year’s Partnership Award have initiated and coordinated several interconnected projects.
The “Sawing for Schools” project is coordinated by Mark Azevedo (Albany Tree Commission) and Ed Hodney (Albany Parks & Recreation Department). For the past six years, donated fallen urban trees have been brought to Albany area high schools during Arbor Week; high school students then learn how to turn these logs into lumber.
“This year’s award recipients are great examples of inspirational individuals and organizations promoting tree planting and quality tree care, while raising awareness and knowledge about Oregon’s trees and urban and community forests,” said Oregon Community Trees President Ruth Williams. “We’re proud to honor them.”
Now in its 22nd year, the O.C.T. awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their significant accomplishments and leadership advancing urban and community forestry projects and activities in the state of Oregon.
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