If you’ve driven by S.K. Whiting Park in Ellsworth recently, you may have noticed two fresh flags flying proudly above the park.
One is instantly recognizable — the American flag.
The other represents something many communities strive for, but not all achieve: Ellsworth’s continued designation as a Tree City USA community.
Recently, Caleb from the City’s Parks & Recreation team, along with Parks, Recreation & Facilities Director Roddy, installed two crisp new flags at the park to celebrate the designation and help showcase an important part of Ellsworth’s community identity.
This year marks Ellsworth’s 5th consecutive year being recognized as a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation.
The Tree City USA program, sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters, recognizes cities and towns that prioritize caring for and investing in their urban forest.
To receive the designation, communities must meet four core standards:
- Maintain a dedicated tree board or department
- Have a community tree ordinance
- Invest at least $2 per capita in tree care and forestry efforts
- Hold an annual Arbor Day observance
Trees do more than beautify a community. They provide shade, improve air quality, support wildlife, help manage stormwater, and contribute to the welcoming character of places like Ellsworth.
The City extends a sincere thanks to Roddy for helping research and submit the information and to Caleb and the Parks & Rec team for helping raise the flags that now wave proudly over S.K. Whiting Park. Sometimes the little details quietly tell a much bigger story about the kind of community we are.
