The Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council, an advisory body supporting the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, has given its nod to local champions of arboreal stewardship, celebrating those who contribute to the greening of cityscapes throughout the state. Describing these contributions as underpinning the beauty and resilience of urban environments, the council recently bestowed awards across multiple categories, recognizing the diverse ways in which individuals and groups work tirelessly to enrich urban forests.
At this year's Wisconsin Arborist Association/DNR Urban Forestry Conference in Green Bay, the council outlined the contributions that merited the annual accolades, acknowledging efforts ranging from educational outreach to innovative technology use in urban forestry. Their impact is evident, from tree-lined streets to lush public parks, according to the Wisconsin DNR.
Among the awardees, Thom Berres stood out for expanding tree species in Sussex Village Park. Meanwhile, Jay Weiss's efforts have transformed the village of Cambridge into a biodiverse arboreal haven. Mark Freberg's lifelong dedication, along with Michael Yanny's multifaceted approach, was also lauded for their enduring contributions.
Pushing the envelope in urban forestry were Alex Krutsch and the Wauwatosa Forestry Department, whose digital engagement efforts via the Tosa Tree Dashboard have not only drawn community interest but also set a new standard for public involvement in forestry. Komatsu and Milwaukee Parks Foundation's fruitful partnership, celebrated for its Earth Day volunteer initiatives, signals a growing trend of corporate-community synergy in urban conservation efforts. Meanwhile, Daniel Heth and the Willow River Company embody the investment in youth, exposing students to career opportunities in urban forestry through interactive events that have reached thousands of aspiring environmental stewards.
As the state looks ahead to the next cycle of recognition, with the deadline for 2026 nominations looming on October 31, 2025, the importance of acknowledging these green-thumbed heroes cannot be overstated. Their work not only beautifies neighborhoods but also strengthens ecological resilience, fosters community involvement, and ensures that the next generation embraces the values of sustainable urban forestry.
