On Arbor Day, April 10, the state’s Department of Natural Resources recognized 82 Washington cities that have earned the title of Tree City USA.

Not only is Bainbridge Island among the many cities honored as tree cities, it has been given the title seven years in a row.

The honorary title is bestowed by the Arbor Day Foundation on cities across the nation that support their urban forests.

In order to earn the distinction, a city must designate staff for the care of trees, appoint a citizen tree board, establish a tree ordinance and spend at least $2 per capita on tree care. Cities also must celebrate Arbor Day; the Bainbridge council approved an Arbor Day Proclamation on March 27.