Owen Sound Once Again Recognized as a Tree City of the World, One of Only 18 in Canada

The Arbor Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations have recognized Owen Sound as a Tree City of the World for 2023.

The City of Owen Sound has achieved this status acknowledging its dedication to growing and maintaining the best urban forestry practices. 

The purpose of this program is to promote the benefits of trees in the urban built environment, provide direction and assistance for developing urban forestry and tree planting programs, and offers certification and international recognition for sustainable urban forestry practices.

To be certified, the City has met the program’s five core standards:

• Establish Responsibility
• Set the Rules
• Know What You Have
• Allocate Resources
• Celebrate Achievements

Sustainability is a core value of the City’s Strategic Plan, with environment as a key pillar with the goal of protecting, preserving, maintaining, and enhancing Owen Sound’s natural heritage.

For more information, visit the City’s Parks, Trails, & Facilities webpage.

For more information, please contact Eckhard Pastrik, Manager of Parks and Open Space at 519-376-4440 ext. 1221 or email epastrik@owensound.ca.    

Quick Facts:

• Tree Cities of the World is an international brand recognizing cities for their commitment and stewardship of trees and the urban canopy.
• Previously, the City of Owen Sound was recognized as a Tree City of the World in 2022.
• Benefits of achieving the five core standards of the Tree Cities of the World certification include a framework for action, reduced energy costs, improved community conviviality, education with respect to the importance of sustainable tree management, improved community pride, and positive publicity.

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