The City of Ottumwa was recently honored with the 2024 Tree
City USA Award at the 34 th Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon in Ankeny, IA. The
award was presented by the Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources
April 3, 2025, at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.
“The Tree City USA award is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the
management of public trees,” says state forester Jeff Goerndt. “Your community has provided an
outstanding example for the other Iowa communities by enhancing our forest resources and
demonstrating the great values of trees in providing multiple benefits for future generations.”
Ottumwa was one of 73 Iowa communities to qualify for the Tree City USA status. To receive the
award, a city must, at a minimum, have either a city forester or an active city tree board, have a tree
ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita annually for its community forestry program, and have a tree
planting and maintenance plan.
There are many benefits to having trees in an urban environment, including improved air and water
quality, better storm water management, reduced energy costs, and aesthetics. In addition to trees
found in many neighborhoods, they are prevalent in the City’s many parks. The City of Ottumwa has
nearly three times the national average when it comes to parkland for every 100 residents.
