The Fairfax County Tree Commission announces the winners of its 2021-2022 Friends of Trees Awards. Twelve county individuals and groups are being recognized as champions of the county’s urban forest. A recognition ceremony will be held on January 5, 2023 at the Tree Commission’s virtual meeting. Information is posted at Tree Commission Upcoming Meetings and Agenda.
Since 1999, the Friends of Trees awards has highlighted exceptional, outstanding, and innovative tree conservation actions in Fairfax County that meet one or more criteria: to protect and preserve existing trees and associated habitats, to increase the urban tree canopy and its related habitats, to educate and inspire people to plant more trees and properly maintain them, and to convey an understanding of the value and benefits of trees. Developers who go “above and beyond” county requirements to preserve and protect trees and associated habitats are also eligible for these awards.
2021-2022 Winners:
- Margaret Fisher and Heidi Allen from the Plant Nova Trees “Tree Rescuers” program
- Cathy Ledec, Friends of Huntley Meadows Park, former Tree Commissioner, Northern Virginia Audubon Society, and Mt. Vernon District Environmental Committee
- Great Falls Citizens Association
- Loft Ridge Homeowners Association
- Megan McCullough and Dan Malone of Stantec Consulting for Hollin Hills Stream restoration
- Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Urban Forest Management Division for joint projects at:
- Ft. Hunt Elementary School
- Greenbriar West Elementary School
- Irving Middle School, together with Girl Scout Troop #5532
- Justice High School
- Whitman Middle School
Tree Commission Chair Cindy Speas praised the winners as embodying the passion local residents have for trees, “The winning projects are perfect examples of what all of us – individuals, government agencies, groups and businesses – can do together to save trees and improve our green spaces. The results are a better, healthier quality of life for residents, both now and in the future.”
The Tree Commission has been chartered since August 1, 1993. Tree canopy covers more than 50 percent of Fairfax County. To maintain, preserve and expand this canopy, the Board of Supervisors relies on the 15-member Commission for advice and support regarding urban forest conservation and preservation. For more information on the Tree Commission visit Tree Commission.
