STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Arbor Day Foundation has named the City of Staunton a 2026 Tree City USA, marking the 30th consecutive year of commitment to planting, growing, and maintaining its urban tree canopy.

Staunton City Council presented an official proclamation recognizing Arbor Day to City Horticulturist Matt Sensabaugh during Thursday night’s meeting.

To maintain the Tree City USA status, Staunton continues to meet the four core standards, including maintaining a tree board or department, upholding a community tree ordinance, spending at least two dollars per capita on urban forestry and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.