Specific Judging Considerations

To recognize individuals, businesses, or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional achievement in developing sustainable resource management programs for agricultural or forestry operations

Relationship between the environmental benefits and the associated economic benefits

2009 Winner

Winner –Take Root Chattanooga – Hamilton County

Take Root Chattanooga is a grassroots, community-driven project with a goal to double the tree canopy cover in downtown Chattanooga by planting approximately 1,500 street trees since 2007. This project was developed by eight citizens in a local leadership development class, and is made possible by various partners including the city of Chattanooga, local businesses, foundations and volunteers. Positive impacts of increased tree canopy cover include air pollution reduction, carbon sequestration, storm water runoff reduction, energy savings and aesthetic improvement. Total benefits of Chattanooga's street tree population exceed $8.5 million annually.