Panama City Beach Earns 2023 Tree City USA Designation

Panama City Beach, FL– The City of Panama City Beach has been named a 2023 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, to honor the City’s commitment to effective urban forest management.

The City achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

“Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The trees being planted and cared for by the City of Panama City Beach are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it is through volunteer engagement or public education.”

Mayor Mark Sheldon praised City staff for their continued care in maintaining the City’s canopy at Conservation Park, Gayle’s Trails, Frank Brown and Aaron Bessant Park, and throughout our City.

“Trees aren’t just silent sentinels in our parks and streets, they are the lifeblood of our City. Trees provide respite from the Florida sun, reduce our energy costs and boost property values. Earning the Tree City designation isn’t just an honor — it is a powerful statement about our commitment to a greener, healthier future and a great quality of life for all our residents.”