F1. Best of Urban Forestry Awards 2019 Memo to CouncilParks & Recreation
306 First Avenue East
P.O. Box 1997, Kalispell, Montana 59903
(406) 758-7718 kpr&kalispell.com
www.kalispell.com
REPORT TO: Doug Russell, City Manager
FROM: Fred Bicha, Parks Superintendent
MEETING DATE: October 7, 2019
SUBJECT: Best of Kalispell Urban Forestry Awards Presentation
BACKGROUND: In 2017, the Urban Forestry Committee created an awards program to
recognize citizen, organization, and public facilities that exemplified different aspects of the
Urban Forestry in Kalispell. This year's award selections include:
Stillwater Corporation
Best of Kalispell Urban Forest Award 2019 Commercial Stewardship category is awarded to the
Stillwater Corporation for the Kalispell North Town Center project. Their work in recognizing
the importance of landscaping and trees in developing a commercial subdivision that is inviting to
the public and businesses and softens the harshness commercial development can bring. The
nomination was made based on the appropriate use of trees and other plantings. Factors that were
considered in determining the best candidate for this award included appropriate selection of tree
species for the site, variety of trees and complimentary plantings, and how the use of this
selection contributes to the overall community objectives as a Tree City USA. Their landscaping
exhibits exemplary attention to the health and care of the site-scape and meet or exceed city
standards.
Vic and Barb Anderson
Best of Kalispell Urban Forest Award 2019 Residential Stewardship is awarded to citizen's Vic
and Barb Anderson for their continued efforts to volunteer several hours each week during the
summer months to water trees in the downtown area of the community. They advocate for tree
care and maintenance throughout the City.
Kalispell Downtown Business Improvement District
Best of Kalispell Urban Forest Award 2019 Public Lands Stewardship category is awarded to the
Kalispell Downtown Business Improvement District for their work in helping to purchase and
replant trees in the downtown area of Kalispell as well as in helping to water those trees
throughout the summer months. In addition to the many benefits we know trees provide, trees in
downtowns encourage citizens to stay longer while providing shade and reducing the heat island
effect.
RECOMMENDATION: Allow the Urban Forestry Committee to present the best of Kalispell
Urban Forestry Awards.