Philadelphia and Wilmington Headline Community Trees Award

Los Angeles (June 23, 2007)- The U.S. Conference of Mayors and The Home Depot Foundation today announced the winners of the second annual Awards of Excellence for Community Trees and Urban Forestry at the Conference of Mayors 75th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. The city of Philadelphia and the city of Wilmington, Del., won first place in the large and small city categories, respectively. The runner-up cities were Albuquerque, N.M., (large) and Orland Park, Ill., (small).

State Farm Companies Grants Program- Deadline: Rolling

The State Farm Companies Grants Program is committed to meeting the needs of company communities in the U.S. and Canada. Support is provided to nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies working in the areas of safety, community development, and education.

Neighborhoods Can Reduce the Risk of Obesity

Washington, DC (July 1, 2007)- Obesity is the most serious public health problem confronting America today. Obese and overweight Americans face elevated risks of chronic illness and disability. As the obesity epidemic worsens, researchers are zeroing in on environmental factors that may contribute to the problem or, conversely, help to prevent it. It is increasingly clear that neighborhoods play an important role in stimulating exercise and reducing the risk of obesity.

Green Partnerships with Businesses Webcast- July 19

By creating vibrant street life and a strong sense of community, green partnerships are part of the equation to creating healthier, safer, and more livable neighborhoods. Together, community leaders, homebuilders, developers, and businesses can promote this new way of thinking by ensuring that trees are a component of well-planned development..

Forest Service Announces State and Private Redesign

Washington, DC (June 28, 2007)- The US Forest Service has released information about the redesign and reorganization of the agency's State and Private Forestry division, responsible for assistance to non-federal forest lands, including urban forests. The redesign will significantly impact how the Urban and Community Forestry Program is delivered in all states.

Denver Digs Trees

(Denver, CO)- The Park People, in partnership with the Denver Parks & Recreation Department, distributes more than 1,000 street trees annually to Denver residents. Nearly 30,000 public trees have been planted through this program, called Denver Digs Trees. Neighborhood organizations, affordable housing agencies, schools, civic groups, and more than 400 volunteers participate..