Troy Celebrates 40 Years as a Tree City USA

The Ohio city has been recognized for its commitment to urban forest management since 1986.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The City of Troy, Ohio is celebrating its 40th year as a designated Tree City USA, a recognition awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation to communities that demonstrate a strong commitment to urban forest management. To earn the Tree City USA status, Troy has met the program's four standards, including maintaining a community tree care ordinance, a tree board, a forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an annual Arbor Day celebration.

Why it matters

The Tree City USA program highlights communities that prioritize the planting, care, and preservation of trees, which provide environmental, economic, and quality of life benefits to residents. Troy's four decades of recognition showcases the city's longstanding dedication to maintaining a healthy urban forest, even as many cities struggle to manage their tree canopies.

The details

Troy's Beautification Department serves as the city's tree board and works with the Park Department to oversee tree care and planning. In 2025, the city spent about $86,000 on forestry work, more than $3 per resident. The Park Department, led by Certified Arborist and Park Superintendent Jeremy Drake, is responsible for planting, maintaining, and safely removing trees on public property, as well as providing guidance to residents and contractors.

  • Troy first earned the Tree City USA designation in 1986.
  • The city is celebrating its 40th year as a Tree City USA in 2026.

The players

Arbor Day Foundation

A nonprofit organization dedicated to planting and caring for trees, and awarding the Tree City USA designation to qualifying communities.

Troy Beautification Department

Serves as the city's tree board and works with the Park Department to manage Troy's urban forest.

Troy Park Department

Oversees the city's tree programs, including planting, maintaining, and removing trees on public property.

Jeremy Drake

Certified Arborist and Park Superintendent who leads the Troy Park Department's tree management efforts.

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What’s next

Troy plans to continue its tree planting and maintenance efforts to maintain its Tree City USA status in the coming years.

The takeaway

Troy's 40-year commitment to urban forestry demonstrates that with dedicated funding, community engagement, and professional management, cities can sustain a thriving tree canopy that benefits residents for generations.