Hundreds gathered in Waco this week to celebrate the accomplishments of those who have dedicated their talents to spreading a leafy green canopy over Texas.
The Texas Community Forestry and Tree Care Awards are held during the annual Texas Tree Conference, an educational and networking opportunity for people interested in trees in the state of Texas. The conference hosts around 850 tree enthusiasts who want to learn more and stay up-to-date with trees and tree care.
The awards program “is an opportunity to recognize those individuals or groups who have gone above and beyond and are really showing people through their actions what we need to do to care for our trees, forests and woodlands,” Paul Johnson, the urban and community forestry coordinator for the Texas A&M Forest Service said.
“I have been blown away by all of the great work in arboriculture and urban forestry in the state and I consider it a privilege to honor those in the field,” Johnson said.
The awards are sponsored jointly by Texas A&M Forest Service and the International Society of Arboriculture Texas Chapter.
2014 Award Winners:
Arborist of the Year: Don Gardner
Don Gardner was selected for 2014 Arborist of the Year because of his long service to his clients, community and the state of Texas as a professional in the field of tree care. Gardner’s love for and commitment to trees is shown in his service to his clients, his time on the radio and through his ongoing support of local non-profit organizations. He is a consulting arborist with vast knowledge, excellent communication skills and a heart of gold.
The Gold Leaf Award–Landscape Improvement: San Antonio River Authority
The San Antonio River Authority (SARA) and their San Antonio River Improvement Project has proven to be more than an environmental restoration project. SARA has made significant contributions to reconnect the river and the community, increase ecological services, increase public use and maintain flood protection for local properties. This project is restoring a strong connection between people, water, wildlife and trees for years to come.
Arboricultural Project of the Year: City of Austin
The Tree Court Improvement Project at Barton Springs is a great example of arboriculture in action. Part of the major renovation of the springs included revitalizing the tree court by the main entrance, where the health of the heritage pecans growing there was a primary concern. A plan was put into action to care for the trees’ immediate needs during the renovation and secure their health long term. The plan included alleviating the existing soil compaction, enhancing the soil with compost, expanding planting areas and creating an elevated walkway that appears to be at ground level. The walkway was placed on piers to minimize disruption of the critical root zone of the trees and will minimize tree roots disturbing the walkway in the future.
Outstanding Arbor Day Activities: Keep Denton Beautiful
Denton’s official Arbor Day event, The Denton Redbud Festival, is a community-involved celebration of trees. In 2014 over 3,500 people attended the 21st year of this festival and participated in activities for all ages. Local music and food capped off a day of children’s artwork displays, a TRASHion Runway show, educational workshops, and even a children’s story time that featured “I Can Name 50 Trees Today” from the Cat in the Hat series. The Denton Redbud Festival is hosted by Keep Denton Beautiful.
Photos of 2014 winners: https://www.flickr.com/photos/texasforestservice/sets/72157648325789872/
(Arborist of the year, Don Gardner, not pictured)
For more information: https://isatexas.com/members/awards/previous-winners/