North Ridgeville Review The Community That Cares
The original tree planted on Arbor Day 2025 that led the initiative to apply for Tree City status.
In honor of its commitment to plant, grow and maintain trees to benefit its community, North Ridgeville has earned Tree City USA status from the Arbor Day Foundation.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries. The Foundation’s Tree City USA program is now celebrating its 50th recognition season. The anniversary underscores the program’s rich history of growing healthier, greener and more resilient communities through urban forestry.
“For five decades, Tree City USA has rallied passionate local leaders to enhance the livability and sustainability of their communities. Tree champions like North Ridgeville are leading the way in a growing movement to shape a better future with trees and action,” said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities. We’re proud North Ridgeville is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.”
In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality and boost mental and physical health. When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values and lower energy costs for homeowners.
“This recognition reflects the intentional work happening behind the scenes to care for and strengthen our community’s tree canopy,” said Mayor Kevin Corcoran. “I want to thank our City Arborist, Ryan Thomas, for his expertise and dedication in helping North Ridgeville remain a responsible and forward-thinking steward of our urban forest.”
To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards including maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.
The Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. To learn more about Tree City USA and other Arbor Day Foundation programs, visit arborday.org/programs.
