Bay Village ranks as a top 'Tree City' in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recently announced that Bay Village ranked fifth out of 64 “Tree Cities” throughout the state. The Tree City USA Survey was conducted by the Ohio Division of Forestry to measure the success of urban forestry programs in communities across the state.

The survey scored Bay Village especially high for having an organized tree commission that works closely with the city arborist, and for creating and maintaining a tree ordinance.

The city’s tree commission is currently awaiting approval of an updated Tree Protection Ordinance, which will work in conjunction with the city’s Master Plan. This document details the regulations for planting, maintenance and removal of trees within Bay Village.

Bay Village was also rated well in the Tree Risk Assessment, Systematic Planting Plan, Tree Planting and Strategic Planning categories.

The Bay Village Tree Commission, made up of five residents, along with city arborist Mike Polinski and City Council representative Dave Tadych, works with city officials to preserve, fortify and improve the town’s urban forest. Trees help our neighborhoods by soaking up storm water, lessening air pollution, shading our homes (reducing heating and cooling costs), improving home values, and providing a home for birds and wildlife.

The city planted 62 trees in the fall, including 29 Skyline Honey Locusts on Glen Park Drive. Thirty-eight more trees will be planted on that street this spring.