Burlington--The Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Program (VT UCF) is accepting nominations for its 2024 Vermont Tree Steward Awards. The deadline for nominations is March 29.
The annual awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting and nurturing Vermont’s trees and forests. Award recipients will be announced in April and recognized at a special ceremony at the Vermont Arbor Day conference on May 23 as well as through the VT UCF's website, social media platforms and the media.
To submit a nomination for one or more categories or to view the list of past award winners, go to http://go.uvm.edu/tsa. For questions, please contact Gwen Kozlowski at gwen.kozlowski@uvm.edu or (802) 656-7638.
The categories are:
- HAMILTON: This award, given in honor of a former Charlotte tree warden, recognizes a current or past tree warden who has significantly advanced the goals of urban and community forestry through effective conservation planning, sustainable forestry practices, public education and increased citizen engagement.
- LEADER: Any individual who demonstrates strong leadership and dedication to organizing and carrying out an urban or community forestry project through his or her community or organization may be nominated for this award.
- UNSUNG HERO: The award recognizes an individual and/or group for their ongoing behind-the-scenes efforts to make a difference in a local urban and community forest.
- VOLUNTEER GROUP/COMMUNITY: Nominees for this award include any organization, team, ad/hoc group or community that has shown outstanding dedication and commitment in introducing or sustaining an urban and community forestry project in their community.
VT UCF is a partnership of University of Vermont Extension and the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. To learn more, visit www.vtcommunityforestry.org.