FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 30, 2026

Mayor Noble Announces ‘Great Tree Program’

KINGSTON, NY – Mayor Steven T. Noble is pleased to announce that, as part of Kingston’s 30th anniversary as a Tree City USA, the City’s Urban Forester has launched a “Great Tree Program,” which recognizes trees that represent the diversity and character of Kingston’s urban forest.

Mayor Noble said, “In Kingston, our residents are passionate about our trees. We look forward to providing an opportunity to highlight some of our City’s most beloved trees.”

Trees of distinction can be nominated for beauty, size, type, age, history, and other special features. Eligibility includes any tree that is visible from a public space such as the street, parks, front yards, or parking lots.

Recognition through this program includes a plaque, proclamation from the Mayor, and online publication by the City of Kingston. Private property owners may decline awards if nominated.

Urban Forester Brent Knepper said, “Kingston is lucky to have a wide diversity of impressive and interesting trees throughout the city. This program will recognize these trees and those who care for them while allowing community members to learn more about the unique trees that make up our urban canopy.

The nomination form can be found here. More information about the “Great Tree Program” at Kingston-ny.gov/trees.

The City of Kingston hired its first Urban Forester in 2024, whose role is to manage and advance the City’s urban canopy. The Urban Forester oversees the City’s Street and Park Tree Planting Programs as part of the Mayor’s goal of planting 1,000 trees by 2030. The City has recently received multiple State and Federal grants for tree work such as street tree planting, invasive species removal, hazardous tree removal, planting site improvements, and other reforestation efforts. On Arbor Day 2025, New York State awarded Kingston a $1.6 million dollar grant for community reforestation work in our city parks. More info at kingston-ny.gov/urbanforestry.