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Fairfax County is seeking nominations for residents, community groups and businesses whose work helped preserve, protect or plant trees during the previous year. The Tree Commission’s nomination period closes July 31.
The annual Friends of Trees awards, presented since 1999, recognize exceptional local conservation efforts. Individuals may nominate themselves or others.
Eligible nominees include nonprofit organizations such as Scout groups, faith communities and homeowners associations, as well as businesses, developers, nurseries and landscaping companies.
Trees cover about half of Fairfax County. That canopy provides shade, moderates temperatures, reduces stormwater runoff and flooding, improves air quality and supports wildlife. Trees can also help communities withstand extreme weather while enhancing landscapes, outdoor recreation and mental well-being.
Award recipients will be announced in the fall and recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.
The county’s 15-member Tree Commission advises the board on maintaining and expanding tree-canopy coverage. Its membership includes representatives from every magisterial district, one at-large member and representatives from several environmental, forestry, conservation, extension and park organizations.