Community group honors UAA for natural landscaping

TREErific Anchorage has chosen UAA as one of three local establishments to be recognized for exceptional use of landscaping and/or preservation of natural vegetation. TREErific is a community group with a mission, to enrich our community through the planting, caring and promotion of trees. Their volunteers meet monthly for educational presentations or activities and to plan and sponsor tree planting and maintenance projects. This is their first year to present awards for significant contributions to the city's beauty. They say they intend to do it on an annual basis.

TREErific will be honoring UAA, along with Arctic Office Products and the BP Energy Center, on Tuesday, May 6, at 11 a.m. in conjunction with the Municipality of Anchorage's Second Annual TREE City USA Celebration at the Russian Jack Springs Municipal Greenhouse. Mayor Mark Begich is scheduled to attend.

The university will be recognized for its preservation of existing natural vegetation on the campus, for enhancing it with a variety of tree species, and for having a certified arborist on staff (Pat Leary) who provides guidance on proper placement and maintenance, all of which provide beauty and educational opportunities throughout the year.