News Summary

Florence proudly celebrates its 45th year as a Tree City USA, receiving commendations for its environmental efforts, including the planting of nearly 500 trees in 2024. To enhance community initiatives, city officials are revitalizing neighborhoods and improving local beautification through volunteer efforts and partnerships. The Tree City USA program highlights Florence’s long-standing commitment to urban forestry and sustainability.

Florence Celebrates 45th Year as Tree City USA and Launches Community Revitalization Initiatives

The City of Florence has been designated as a Tree City USA for the year 2024, marking the 45th consecutive year it has received this prestigious award from the Arbor Day Foundation. In addition to this accolade, Florence was recognized with its 18th Tree City USA Growth Award, distinguishing it as a leader in environmental improvement and tree care excellence within South Carolina.

In order to maintain its status as a Tree City USA, Florence fulfilled several key requirements: it maintained a dedicated tree board or department, established a tree care ordinance, allocated an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosted an official Arbor Day observance. In the year 2024 alone, the city planted 488 trees, pruned 1,964 existing trees, and removed 163 hazardous trees.

The awards ceremony took place at the monthly meeting of the City of Florence Parks and Beautification Commission on June 5, 2025, and was subsequently presented to the Florence City Council during their regular meeting on June 9.

Ongoing Community Improvement Efforts

In conjunction with the Tree City USA designation, approximately 40 volunteers participated in a community cleanup effort in the Clement Street area on a recent Monday. Mayor Lethonia “Peaches” Barnes, along with Michelle Bailey, chair of Keep Florence Beautiful, announced a new countywide partnership aimed at coordinating beautification efforts throughout the city.

City Manager Scotty Davis reaffirmed the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth, emphasizing the importance of trees as essential infrastructure that contribute to a healthier future for Florence.

Neighborhood Revitalization

The city is also focusing on revitalizing neighborhoods, particularly urged by members of the Tara Village Neighborhood Association. They have formally requested support from Florence County for neighborhood revitalization based on findings in a 2020 report. This move demonstrates the city’s proactive approach in addressing community needs as part of its broader strategic initiatives.

Significance of the Tree City USA Program

The Tree City USA program, which is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes municipalities that demonstrate a commitment to managing and expanding urban forestry. Florence’s achievement of maintaining its status for 45 years and earning the most Growth Awards in the state is a testament to its dedication to urban forestry management.

In summary, Florence’s recognition as a Tree City USA demonstrates the city’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and enhances its reputation as a leader in sustainable growth. Through ongoing community revitalization efforts and partnerships aimed at beautification, Florence is working towards a more vibrant and healthier urban environment.

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Additional Resources

• WPDE: Florence School Kids Go Green on Tree Planting Day
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tree City USA
• WMBF News: City of Florence Reporting Water Pressure Problems
• Google Search: Florence Community Revitalization
• The Flor-Ala: City of Florence Finishes Parking Garage
• Google Scholar: Urban Forestry Management