By Martine M. Wolfe, PIO

MOUNT PLEASANT, SC (June 29, 2006) – The National Arbor Day Foundation recently awarded the Town of Mount Pleasant the distinguished status of Tree City USA for the 16th consecutive year, announced Site Planner III and certified arborist Eddie Bernard, RLA.

“Residents appreciate the importance of trees for the quality of our environment and the economic vitality of our cities,” said Mount Pleasant Mayor Harry M. Hallman, Jr. “Mount Pleasant Town Council strongly supports tree-care programs as a wise investment for the future of their community. Last year alone, the Town’s total community forestry expenditure was $234,050. Over the past 16 years, we have planted more than 4,190 trees (mostly live oaks) in our town. That’s an entire forest!”

Mount Pleasant has kept its privileged status of Tree City USA, by meeting four standards including a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and Arbor Day observance.

As part of its commitment to reforestation, the Town will perform a comprehensive planting of trees in eight medians and shoulder areas along US 17 (between I-526 and the Isle of Palms Connector) in the fall. More than 200 trees, including magnolias, palmettos, redbuds, and red buckeyes will visually and ecologically impact the project at a cost of approximately $300,000. This planting program by the Town is consistent with the planting programs of years past. In 2005, the Town planted 345 trees at locations ranging from the Isle of Palms Connector (29), and Long Point Road (69) to Dorothy Kearns Park (65), I-526 (53) and Park West Recreation Center (129).

The Tree Program is sponsored in cooperation with the National Association of State Forestry and the USDA Forest Service and promotes Mount Pleasant’s philosophy of beautification and property improvement through the use of tree conservation and management. “The trees planted today actually cool and serve to further improve the appearance of the Town for years to come. They increase property values, help clean the air and water, conserve energy, provide wildlife habitat and buffer our properties from high winds,” said Bernard.

For additional information on the Tree City USA and tree programs, contact Eddie Bernard at (843) 884-1229 or visit us online at www.townofmountpleasant.com