COVINGTON, KY — The City of Covington is proud to announce it has once again been named a Tree City USA for 2025 by the Arbor Day Foundation, marking 22 consecutive years in the nationally recognized program. The City has also received the Growth Award for the tenth year in a row, recognizing its ongoing commitment to going above and beyond in sustainable community forest management. 

This year is especially significant as Tree City USA celebrates its 50th anniversary. Today, more than 3,500 cities and towns across all 50 states are recognized through the program, representing nearly half of the U.S. population. Collectively, Tree City USA communities plant nearly 1 million trees each year, and in 2024 alone, participating communities invested a combined $2 billion in urban forestry efforts. 

Covington’s sustained recognition reflects its strong commitment to preserving and enhancing its urban tree canopy. To earn Tree City USA status, a city must meet four core standards: maintaining a tree board or department, establishing a community tree ordinance, investing at least $2 per capita in urban forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration. 

The Tree City USA program is operated by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. 

In addition to its national recognition, Covington has also been named a Tree City of the World for the fourth consecutive year. In 2025, a total of 283 cities from 24 countries earned this international designation, further highlighting Covington’s leadership on a global stage. 

“Earning both Tree City USA recognition and the Growth Award year after year is a direct reflection of the intentional work we’re doing here in Covington,” Patrick Moore, the City’s Urban Forester, said. “From planting and maintaining trees to leveraging data and community partnerships, we’re committed to growing a resilient and sustainable urban canopy that benefits every neighborhood.” 

The City continues to prioritize data-driven decision-making through its Tree Inventory Map. The interactive tool catalogs more than 5,000 trees located in parks and along streets throughout Covington, allowing users to search by species, tree size, and neighborhood. The inventory is continuously updated and provides valuable data that helps City leaders manage and grow the urban canopy effectively. 

Residents interested in having a tree planted along their street or who have questions about urban forestry are encouraged to contact the City of Covington’s Urban Forestry Division for more information.