Heather Bell
RADFORD – A few years ago, the City of Radford put significant effort into being named a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation and was designated accordingly.
Radford has once again been names a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation, Mayor David Horton announced Monday at the Radford City Council meeting.
Monday, Radford Mayor David Horton announced the city has achieved the designation again.
“I just received word that we have been named a Tree City USA city again,” Horton said at Monday’s Radford City Council meeting. “This is great news. We should be proud.”
In a letter to Horton and the city-at-large, Arbor Day Foundation President Dan Lambe congratulates Radford for its efforts.
“Residents of Radford should be proud to live in a community that makes the plating and care of trees a priority,” writes Lambe.
“Radford is one of 3,500 Tree City USAs with a combined population of 150 million,” he writes. “If ever there was a time for trees, now is the time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being and energy use. Radford is stepping up to do it’s part.”
“As a result of your commitment to effective urban forest management, you are helping to provide a solution to these challenges,” Lambe continues. “We celebrate your commitment to the people and trees of Radford and thank you for helping to create a healthier planet for all of us.”
Radford is currently searching for a new person to lead its Tree City USA and other horticulture-related efforts. City Manager David Horton said Monday. City Horticulturist Carly Reynolds will be leaving the city for a job in the private sector. The job description calls for “a horticulturist to perform difficult technical work planning, supervising and participating in the planting, care and improvement of landscape areas.”
“The Horticulturist must have the ability to develop, implement and maintain a comprehensive landscape and beautification program for the City of Radford,” the description continues. “He or she must have knowledge of cultural landscaping practices; greenhouse and landscaping activities; ability to identify plants, shrubs and other vegetation suitable for the City’s environment and plan for disease prevention. The Horticulturist works with the urban forestry and beautification committee and must possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field along with pesticide applicator and fertilizer applicator licenses,” among other job requirements.
Application and more information can be found on the City’s website, www.radfordva.gov.
