Homeowner Marilyn Dollinger is being recognized by the City of Auburn Urban Tree Board as a Tree Steward for preserving the two London Plane trees at 12 G St. NW in Auburn.

Dollinger will be presented with a proclamation and certificate during the City of Auburn Council Meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday.

Additionally, the London Plane Trees will be designated as a significant trees in Auburn.

Auburn is recognized by the National Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA, which recognizes communities that effectively manage their urban forest and meet four Tree City USA standards. The standards include having a tree governing body; maintaining a comprehensive community forestry program that spends at least $2 per capita on the urban forest; maintaining a tree care ordinance; and holding an annual celebration related to Arbor Day.

The City seeks to protect any unique, rare or endangered species of plants found within the City as part of its Comprehensive Plan and the Urban Tree Board works with the community to nominate tree stewards for their community service of preserving unique trees within the City of Auburn. Promoting the preservation and beautification of trees assists in enhancing wildlife habitat, improving air quality, and reducing soil erosion.

Also, as part of Auburn’s Tree City USA designation, the City of Auburn Planning Department manages Community Grants that encourage citizens to apply for tree plantings in residential and commercial neighborhoods. In exchange for financial assistance, groups must commit to plant, water and maintain the trees. For additional information about the Tree Grants, call the City of Auburn Planning Department at 253-931-3090.

For more information about the Urban Tree Board or to nominate an individual or company as a Tree Steward, please call the Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Department at 253-931-3043.