Vermont Tree Steward Awards Announced
Each year the Vermont Urban & Community Forestry Program and Council sponsors the Vermont Tree Steward Awards as a way to recognize our state's urban and community forestry champions. VTUCF also adminsters the Arbor Day Foundation's three recognition programs in the state: Tree City USA, Tree Campus USA, and Tree Line USA. Award recipients and representatives from designated communities, campuses, and utility companies were celebrated at the annual VT Arbor Day Celebration. We are honored to support and collaborate with the dedicated individuals and institutions that value and manage trees in our state.
Vermont Tree Steward Award Recipients
The Arbor Day Award: VTUCF program staff collectively pick a recipient that sticks out as a tree champion.
Award winner: Steve Sinclair, Vermont State Forester, retiring this year after 40+ years with the VT Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation
The Hamilton Award: In recognition of a Tree Warden who has significantly advanced the goals of urban and community forestry through successful forestry practices, effective conservation planning, increased citizen engagement, and active public education. This award is in honor of Dr. Larry Hamilton, the former Tree Warden in Charlotte, and is limited to Tree Wardens.
Award winner: Brad Goedkoop, Hartford Tree Warden
Leader: An individual who, through services to their community or organization, has shown leadership and dedication in carrying out an urban or community forestry effort.
Award Winner: Pat Mainer, Hinesburg Town Forest Committee
Unsung Hero: An individual and/or group who work(s) behind the scenes and consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference in their community's urban and community forest.
Award winner: Kyle Albee, Branch Out Burlington Vice President and Tree Sale Organizer
Volunteer Group/Community: An organization, team or ad/hoc group, or community who, through their efforts, have shown outstanding dedication and commitment in introducing or sustaining an urban & community forestry project within their community.
Award winners: Barbara and Wally Smith, Strafford Edible Pocket Park Stewards
Youth/Student: Recognition of an individual or group, from elementary to college-aged, who has contributed in a noteworthy way to an activity, publication, or ceremony, or has shown continued interest in the advancement of the goals of urban and community forestry.
Award winner: Ian Lyle, Town of Essex Conservation Committee intern
Tree City USA Award Recipients
City of Burlington
Village of Essex Junction
Town of Hartford
City of Montpelier
City of Rutland
Town of Shelburne (1st year)
City of South Burlington
Tree Campus USA Award Recipients
Landmark College
Middlebury College
University of Vermont
Tree Line USA Award Recipients
Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO)