City Trees is a premier publication focused on urban + community forestry. In each issue, you’ll learn how to best manage the trees in your community and more!
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1198176
Award of Achievement The Award of Achievement is presented to a member who has shown exceptional commitment to the urban forest resource and/or to the public that we serve. This year, the SMA presented the Award of Achievement to two members who have given generously of their time and talents both to the SMA and to urban and commu- nity forestry: Tyler Stevenson and Melinda Adams. Tyler Stevenson serves as the urban forestry program coordinator for the State of Ohio, the national leader in the number of Tree City USA communities. He is also the current Ohio Chapter ISA President and the coordinator of the Urban Forestry Strike Team that recently came to the aid of tornado-stricken Dayton, Ohio. Tyler is a talented speaker, teacher, and leader. The SMA thus recog- nized Award of Achievement honoree Tyler Stevenson. Melinda Adams served as a key member of the City Trees Editorial Review Committee for a decade. Her years of dedicated, progressive work as the Fort Worth, Texas City Forester recently came to an end with her retire- ment, but her legacy will live on. Each year, Fort Worth plants more than 2000 trees in partnership with a wide range of community groups. She and her team developed efficient and budget-conscious systems for contending with a devastating five-year extended drought in Texas. Further, Melinda oversaw the creation of the Fort Worth Citizen Forester program in conjunction with the Cross Timbers Urban Forestry Council. She has volunteered as their Council Board Treasurer since 2000. Congratulations to Award of Achievement winner Melinda Adams. Legacy Project of the Year The Legacy Project of the Year award recognizes a member or organization that has raised awareness, enhanced urban forest management, or boosted appreciation of urban trees or green infrastructure. The winning project must demonstrate innovation, partnerships, and engagement. It should also promote and implement best management practices that leave lasting influ- ence. For thirteen years, the SMA's Municipal Forestry Institute (MFI) has set a high standard for professional development, networking, and lasting impact. MFI has been life and career-changing for many attendees. Last year, a unique partnership between the Society, the US Forest Service, and Southern University made MFI 2019 a truly special opportunity by providing a unique emphasis on diversity. Attendee stipends, international recruiting, and curriculum enhancements made Diversity in MFI 2019, and will make MFI 2020 in Gulf Shores, Alabama, a true professional highlight for attendees and a profession-altering event for urban forestry. In gratitude for her extensive work developing Diversity in MFI 2019, the Legacy Project of the Year Award went to Dr. Yadong Qi of Southern University. Incoming SMA President Darren SMA President Keith Cline with faithful service to the Society. Tyler Stevenson was honored with an SMA Award of Achievement for his work on the state level, his involvement with the Urban Forest Strike Team, his ISA Ohio Chapter presidency, and more. Photo by Michelle Sutton 20 CityTREES