Sacramento, CA (July 8, 2008)- At the US Conference of Mayors’ summer meeting, Sacramento Mayor Heather Fargo introduced three resolutions in support of urban forestry policy objectives. The Alliance for Community Trees is pleased to announce these resolutions, and thank Mayor Fargo for her continued work with ACT and support of urban forestry organizations around the country.
Resolution in Support of the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that The U.S. Conference of Mayors recognizes the invaluable role of urban forests to the protection of public health and reduction of harmful greenhouse gases; and, Be It Further Resolved that the U.S. Conference of Mayors endorses H.R. 5867, the Energy Conservation through Trees Act; and Be It Further Resolved that Congress approve and fund H.R. 5867, the Energy Conservation through Trees Act.
Resolution in Support of Urban and Community Forestry
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that Congress fund the U&CF program annual budget at no less than $100 million, and increase Forest Service Research funding related to urban forests to no less than $24 million by 2015.
Resolution in Support of the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Invasive Species Revolving Loan Fund
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that the United States Conference of Mayors urges increased funding for APHIS for pest control and eradication, and endorses budget appropriations of $45 million to contain the emerald ash borer, $30 million to eradicate the Asian longhorned beetle, $10 million to contain the sudden oak death pathogen, and $5 million to manage Sirex woodwasp populations; and Be It Further Resolved that the United States Conference of Mayors endorses the Invasive Species Revolving Loan Fund championed by Senator Richard Durbin to aid municipalities in their efforts to fight invasive species, and to replace trees and other vegetation damaged as a result of infestation or eradication measures.
Related Resolutions
Other resolutions in work include for green jobs, greening affordable housing developments, and December’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant legislation which could have significant implications for trees. Meanwhile, the National Association of Forest Service Retirees has requested a presentation on Urban Forestry at their upcoming Annual Meeting in Denver.
Related Resources:
Resolution in Support of Energy Conservation Through Trees Act
Resolution in Support of Urban and Community Forestry
Resolution in Support of USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Invasive Species Revolving Loan Fund
U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement