The City of Portage was named a 2018 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. This marks the 29th consecutive year that Portage has been awarded this distinction. The award is granted by the National Arbor Day Foundation to cities that have excelled at efforts in urban forestry. In 2018, the city planted trees in parks, fields, public rights-of-way and provided pruning and tree care to more than 500 trees. This progressive tree planting and urban reforestation effort demonstrates a commitment by the City of Portage to address environmental and quality of life enhancements.
On Saturday, April 13, 2019, public officials and the Youth Advisory Committee, in cooperation with the Environmental Board, Park Board and Historic District Commission, will give out 250 tree seedlings at the Green-A-Thon Earth Day Festival. The festival will be held at the Celery Flats Historical Area located at 7335 Garden Lane from 11 AM to
3 PM. Along with the trees, care and planting information will also be provided.
The National Arbor Day Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to tree planting and environmental stewardship, only bestows the title of ‘Tree City USA’ on those communities that provide a comprehensive community tree program, dedicate a city department to managing trees, establish a community tree ordinance and observe Arbor Day with a special proclamation and ceremony.
For additional information regarding Tree City USA certification, please contact the Department of Public Services at (269) 329-4444, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.