The Arbor Day Foundation has, for the sixth consecutive year, recognized Cal State San Bernardino in its Tree Campus USA program, citing the university’s dedication and work to effectively manage its trees on campus, and work with the local community as part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

Since 2008, the Tree Campus USA program has recognized college and university campuses that effectively manage campus trees, develop connectivity with the community beyond campus borders to foster healthy, urban forests, engage student population through service-learning opportunities centered on campus, and community forestry efforts.

CSUSB joins more than 410 colleges from around the country who have met the program’s five standards and were recognized as a Tree Campus USA. Tree Campus USA is only open to 2- to 4-year accredited colleges and universities.

“We are thrilled to receive this designation for the sixth year in a row,” said Jennifer Sorenson, the university’s associate vice president of Facilities Planning and Management.  “It is a testament to our ongoing efforts to create a sustainable and beautiful campus environment for our students, faculty, and staff.”

CSUSB currently has about 3,789 trees planted throughout the campus. The primary species of trees consists of sycamore, alder, pine and eucalyptus. The trees are the responsibility of the university’s Facilities Planning and Management department, which is responsible for the maintenance and operations of campus buildings and grounds as well as landscaping and turf.

Facilities Planning and Management maintains the campus trees in a safe, healthy and attractive condition and promotes their sustained growth while enhancing the park-like setting of the university.

To be considered for Tree Campus USA, the university had to meet five criteria:

  • Establishment of a campus tree advisory committee
  • Evidence of a campus tree care plan
  • Verification of the plan’s dedicated annual expenditures
  • Observing Arbor Day
  • Creating a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body

A commitment to trees on the campus can significantly reduce the amount of energy a campus and community needs to generate. The planting and maintenance of trees on campus and in the community reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Green space gives students, faculty and staff a setting to relax with others or on their own. It involves students in service-learning project focusing on the planning, planting and maintenance of trees on campus encouraging their commitment to creating a more sustainable future for all.