Missouri State University continues its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship and has once again been named a Tree Campus USA, an honor it has maintained every year since 2012.

Over a decade of recognition

The Tree Campus USA program, an initiative of the Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes colleges and universities that effectively manage their campus trees, develop connectivity with the community, and engage students in sustainability efforts. MSU’s continued recognition highlights its dedication to maintaining a healthy and vibrant tree canopy, which contributes to cleaner air, reduced carbon footprints and a more beautiful campus environment.

To become a Tree Campus USA, a college must meet five standards set by the Arbor Day Foundation: form a Campus Tree Advisory Committee, develop a Tree Care Plan, show dedicated annual expenditures, hold an annual Arbor Day observance and complete a service-learning project, all documented and submitted via an annual application, typically in the fall or winter.

Through these ongoing efforts such as tree planting events, educational programs, and campus-wide sustainability initiatives, MSU has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to preserving its urban forest. The university’s careful planning and management ensures that trees remain an integral part of the campus landscape, enhancing both ecological and aesthetic values.

Looking ahead

Missouri State’s continued commitment to sustainability reflects its broader mission to be a responsible environmental leader. By fostering healthy tree populations, MSU is taking significant steps to promote biodiversity and ecological resilience on campus.

The university extends its gratitude to students, faculty, staff and community members who contribute to these efforts. Together, they ensure that MSU remains a model for environmental stewardship for years to come.

For more information, visit our campus environmental initiatives.