Iowa City was one of 86 state communities to receive the 2011 Tree City USA award.

The award was presented by the National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Forestry Bureau at a luncheon April 17.

According to a city press release, the award honors communities that have made a commitment to the management of public trees.

Cities receiving the award must have a city forester or active city tree board, have a tree ordinance, and spend at least $2 per capita annually for its community forestry program.

— by Kristen East