Boca Named “Tree City USA” For 46th Consecutive Year.
BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The City of Boca Raton has once again been recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a 2025 Tree City USA, marking the 46th consecutive year the city has earned the national honor for its commitment to planting, preserving, and maintaining a healthy urban forest. Boca Raton also received the Tree City USA Growth Award for the seventh straight year, recognizing continued dedication to its urban forestry program through community events, tree giveaways, native habitat restoration, and the recent rededication of a historic buttonwood tree in Por La Mar Park.
“Receiving Tree City USA recognition for 46 years and the Growth Award for the seventh straight year reflects Boca Raton’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and thoughtful urban planning,” said Christina Batoh-Jennings, the city’s Sustainability Manager.
Mayor Andy Thomson added that the city’s tree canopy is “an important part of what defines our community and our future,” and that for nearly half a century the recognition has reflected Boca Raton’s focus on beautiful public spaces and neighborhood character.
The Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program celebrates communities that prioritize sustainable urban forestry. Trees help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health. When planted thoughtfully, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners. To qualify, a city must maintain a tree board or department, have a tree ordinance, invest at least $2 per capita in urban forestry, and observe Arbor Day.
Residents can celebrate alongside the city on Friday, April 24, when Boca Raton and Community Greening will host an Arbor Day Tree Planting at Spanish River Athletic Complex, 1000 Spanish River Boulevard. Forty native trees will be planted to enhance the park’s natural beauty and environmental benefits, and the community is invited to take part.
