WMU re-certified as one of state's two tree campusesDec. 16, 2009 KALAMAZOO--With most people thinking about Christmas trees right now, landscape services employees at Western Michigan University remain focused on all types of trees. Their single-mindedness has helped WMU be re-certified recently by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree Campus USA, a designation that is similar to the foundation's popular Tree City USA honor. "These schools have made a major commitment to protecting, caring for and adding to their campus forests," says John Rosenow, founder of the Arbor Day Foundation. "The results of this commitment will have a lasting, positive impact, not only on campus but in the overall community." The Arbor Day Foundation began its Tree Campus program in fall 2008. The inaugural class is made up of 30 schools from across the nation. WMU and the University of Michigan are the only class members from Michigan. Institutions being named Tree Campuses have to meet five core standards that relate to tree care, and student and community engagement. WMU has more than 4,800 landscape trees on its various campuses, as well as 568 acres of natural areas and preserves. Although not part of the required standards, WMU decided to introduce a self-guided tree walk during its 2008 Arbor Day celebration. Called the Wood Hall Tree Tour, it showcases 21 trees on West Campus near Wood Hall. For more information or to download the Wood Hall Tree Tour map, visit WMU Landscape Services online. Direct questions to Timothy Holysz, landscape services director, at tim.holysz@wmich.edu or (269) 387-8582. Media contact: Jeanne Baron, (269) 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu WMU News |
