Did you know Nashville is a Tree City USA? Better yet, what does that title mean, and why has Nashville held the designation for 30 years?
A Tree City USA must meet four standards, including having a tree ordinance and an active tree board. More than 3,500 communities, including nearby Brentwood and Franklin, have made the same commitment.
Let’s branch out with a few more tree-mendous facts:
- Root Nashville, a public-private campaign aiming to plant 500,000 trees by 2050, has already added over 50,000 to the city’s tree canopy.
- Speaking of our canopy, a 2024 report found that it decreased by 674 acres between 2016 and 2021. However, a community-level canopy assessment highlights areas for expansion.
- Nashvillians show their love for big trees through Nashville Tree Foundation’s annual Big Old Tree Contest. Submit nominations for this year’s contest before Oct. 1, 2025.
- Nashville Tree Foundation has designated over 25 arboreta across the city, including at Vanderbilt, Ellington Agricultural Center, and Glen Leven Farm.
- Tennessee observes National Arbor Day on the first Friday in March — a few weeks ahead of the nationally recognized date — but Cheekwood plans to give away 500 trees at its event on Saturday, April 26.
