Keuka College had an extra reason to celebrate Arbor Day this year: recognition from Tree Campus USA for the environmental stewardship the College displays in its management and maintenance of trees on campus.
“If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time,” wrote Lauren Weyers, program coordinator for the Arbor Day Foundation, in congratulating the College. “Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, and energy use. Keuka College is stepping up to do its part.”
The College’s environmental stewardship was on display on Arbor Day, April 27, as College Grounds Manager Drew Rojek, members of the grounds crew, and the Keuka College Sustainability Committee led a tree-planting ceremony near the Jephson Science Center and discussed the Tree Campus USA designation.
Tree Campus USA, an Arbor Day Foundation program, honors colleges and universities for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation.
To obtain Tree Campus USA distinction, the College met five standards for sustainable campus forestry: establishment of a tree advisory committee, evidence of a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance, and the sponsorship of student service-learning projects
“Your entire campus community should be proud of this sustained commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Weyers.
