Miami Springs Reclaims Tree City USA Status – Why It Matters

Miami Springs has officially rejoined Tree City USA, a national recognition program of the
Arbor Day Foundation, marking an important milestone for our community and its long-
standing commitment to urban forestry.
Tree City USA is more than an honorary title. To qualify, cities must meet four annual
standards: maintain a tree board or department, enforce a tree-care ordinance, dedicate
funding to a community forestry program, and formally observe Arbor Day. These
requirements ensure that local governments actively protect, maintain, and expand their
urban tree canopy. Miami Springs first earned Tree City USA recognition in 1993.n
The designation was held continuously for nearly three decades. The city’s last recognized year was 2020, after which it fell out of certification for several years due to lapses in annual recertification requirements. From 2021 through 2025, Miami Springs was absent from the Tree City USA list. That changed this year. Through renewed commitment, updated policies, and a reinvigorated tree program—including plans to plant more than 75 new trees—the city once again met all Arbor Day Foundation standards and regained its Tree City USA status for 2026.
What does this recognition mean for residents? Trees are not just aesthetic features; they
are critical infrastructure. A healthy tree canopy cools neighborhoods, reduces stormwater
runoff, improves air quality, and enhances property values. Tree City USA recognition
affirms that Miami Springs is investing in these long-term benefits.
Here at Uncle Hanks’ Hideaway, we’re proud to highlight a living symbol of that
commitment: a rare and breathtaking rainbow eucalyptus tree. Known for its naturally
multicolored bark—shades of green, blue, orange, and red—the rainbow eucalyptus is a
striking reminder of the beauty and diversity trees bring to our community. Many visitors
don’t even realize such a tree exists in Miami Springs until they see it in person.
Beyond the rainbow eucalyptus, Miami Springs and the surrounding area are home to
several distinctive and uncommon trees, including Royal Poinciana, Kapok, Floss Silk, and
the endangered native lignum vitae. Each plays a role in defining South Florida’s unique
landscape and ecological heritage. Rejoining Tree City USA is both a celebration and a call to action. Protecting our trees requires ongoing care, smart planning, and community involvement. As Miami Springs moves forward, this renewed recognition reminds us that the city’s canopy—past, present, and the future—is worth protecting.