The City of Trenton is celebrating 41 years as a designated Tree City USA community, marking more than four decades of volunteer-driven efforts to promote environmental stewardship, tree planting, and community beautification.
Tree City USA, a nationally recognized program of the Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities that demonstrate a commitment to urban forestry and tree care. One of the program’s requirements is an annual investment of at least $2 per capita in community tree care activities.
According to Tree City of Trenton Director Jane Dixon, the program has thrived through the dedication of volunteers and a longstanding partnership between community leaders and city officials. The local initiative was established 41 years ago by Altha Sells and the mayor of Trenton, creating a relationship that has endured through changes in leadership and even natural disasters, including a tornado that impacted the community.
Prior to the current leadership team, Eloise Gass helped carry on the organization’s beautification efforts, continuing the volunteer tradition that remains central to Tree City today.
Throughout the years, volunteers have focused on educating residents about the benefits of trees while planting and maintaining trees throughout the city. The program has involved senior citizens, students, and community members in activities designed to improve the local environment and enhance public spaces.
During Trenton’s 41st Arbor Week celebration this past February, community members participated in educational programs, seedling giveaways, and tree planting events. Five trees were planted during the week, exceeding the Tree City USA requirement of planting at least one tree on Arbor Day.
A key partner in those efforts has been the Future Farmers of America program at Dade County High School. Dixon said FFA students have provided valuable volunteer support for numerous community activities and projects.
Looking ahead, Tree City of Trenton is working on two major initiatives. The first is the creation of a Tree Tour Map that will identify and showcase trees planted through Tree City efforts over the years. The map will be available at the Historic Dade County Courthouse and other public locations, allowing residents and visitors to explore tree planting sites throughout the community.
The second project involves the development of a centrally located, accessible community garden. Organizers envision a garden dedicated to individuals who donate perennial plants and assist with planning, development, and maintenance. Tree City officials are currently seeking community input and volunteers to help bring the project to life.
Dixon said community participation will be essential to the garden’s success and emphasized that education, volunteerism, and planting remain the cornerstones of Tree City of Trenton’s mission.
Current Tree City board members include Dixon, Renee Frank of Dade County High School FFA, Bobby Dunn of the Georgia Forestry Commission, Sandy White of the Alliance for Dade, Carey Anderson of Dade County Government, and Laura Beth Cunningham of the UGA Extension Office.
As the organization prepares to enter its 42nd year, Tree City leaders say they remain committed to growing community involvement and expanding environmental initiatives throughout Trenton.
Residents interested in supporting the community garden project or learning more about Tree City activities are encouraged to contact Jane Dixon.