Cabarrus Today

The City of Concord marked Arbor Day by planting a Regal Prince Oak at Dorton Park. Mayor Bill Dusch and City Manager Lloyd Payne led the event, highlighting the city's commitment to maintaining a healthy tree canopy. This initiative is part of Concord's strategy for responsible urban development and enhancing local parks and greenways.

Concord recently earned its fifth consecutive Tree City USA designation, along with a Growth Award from the Arbor Day Foundation. The awards recognize effective urban forest management and environmental improvement. To qualify for the Tree City USA designation, cities must meet four core standards: having a tree conservation board or department, a tree care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and observing Arbor Day with a proclamation.

The city encourages residents to participate in its Memorial Tree Program and Energy Saving Trees program. Through partnerships with All Saints’ Episcopal Church, Carolina Power Partners, and the Arbor Day Foundation, Concord provides 300 free trees annually to homeowners and electric system customers. The Memorial Tree program allows residents to plant trees on city property in memory of loved ones or to mark special occasions.

"Planting the right trees in the right place at the right time not only enhance the appearance of Concord’s neighborhoods and parks," according to city leaders, but also contribute to better air and water quality, stormwater management, and reduced energy costs for homeowners.

City Manager Lloyd Payne emphasized these benefits while planting alongside Mayor Bill Dusch at Dorton Park.