|
Newton aspires to become a 'Tree City'
By Chris Johnsen
April 29, 2005 | NEWTON -- The annual
town clean-up is something of a tradition for most towns
but this year Newton will not only spring clean but
strive to become nationally recognized as a Tree City,
USA.
"I just want to help the community get more excited
about beautifying their yard," said Melece Salisbury,
who is studying horticulture at Utah State University.
Salisbury is part of Newton's grassroots, parks and
recreation program spearheading the project.
"There are so many houses that don't have a tree in
their yard, how sad is that. I think that's the big
thing Cache Valley lacks, they don't put anything into
their landscaping," said Salisbury. "It can really increase
the value of their home."
Newton received a grant from the Salt Lake Arbor Day
Foundation to buy six trees. The grant will double in
size after Newton becomes a Tree City. Salisbury gave
credit to Councilman Gaylen Maughn for the grant, and
said "The trees are there because of him." The local
chapter of the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers, as well
as individual families is expected to donate trees as
well.
The trees, linden and maple, were chosen because they
provide good shade and will be planted around the soccer
field. The trees should handle well Newton's unique
temperature range and water table, said Salisbury.
The National Arbor Day Foundation has four requirements
for a town or city to become a Tree City: a tree board
or department, tree care ordinance, a community forestry
program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita,
and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
Newton has a least another year before it becomes
a Tree City. The biggest obstacle is in writing a tree
care ordinance. Common tree care ordinances govern how
close trees can be planted to street corners, telephone
lines and buildings. Some community ordinances are strict
and even specify what trees can be planted, but Newton's
ordinance is expected to be much more simple and loose,
said Salisbury.
Salisbury is also working with the Utah State University
Extension to create specialized classes that will teach
landscaping, pruning and other horticultural skills
to interested Newton residents.
NW
MS |
