University of Michigan Achieves 18-Year Recognition for Campus Forestry Excellence
The University of Michigan (U-M) has once again been honored by the Arbor Day Foundation, marking its 18th consecutive year as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution. This accolade underscores the university’s unwavering dedication to urban forestry and environmental stewardship.
For nearly two decades, U-M has consistently demonstrated excellence in maintaining a sustainable and healthy campus environment. The recognition reflects a collaborative effort by the Facilities & Operations Custodial & Grounds Services, working alongside various university partners to achieve exemplary campus forest management.
Rob Doletzky, associate director for Grounds Services, emphasized the significance of this honor by stating, “This designation recognizes both the aesthetic and functional importance of trees to the U-M community, as well as the dedicated staff who work to keep our campus forest healthy and vibrant.”
To qualify for the Tree Campus Higher Education recognition, institutions must adhere to five essential standards:
- Maintaining a tree advisory committee.
- Establishing a campus tree-care plan.
- Allocating dedicated annual funding for tree programs.
- Observing Arbor Day.
- Sponsoring student service-learning projects.
At the heart of U-M’s efforts is the Campus Forest Management Plan, which guides forestry teams in promoting long-term campus forest health. This includes proactive maintenance, strategic planting, and ensuring a diverse range of species and ages among the trees, all while safeguarding existing trees.
Leading these initiatives is Campus Forester, Mike Rutkofske, who has developed and maintains an extensive inventory of more than 18,000 trees across the Ann Arbor campus. “We are honored to be recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution for the 18th consecutive year,” Rutkofske said. “Our team remains committed to maintaining a safe, diverse, and sustainable campus forest for the university community.”
Rutkofske’s team diligently monitors tree health to evaluate risks and make informed management decisions, aligning with the university’s sustainability goals of reforestation, landscape stewardship, and carbon reduction. “These efforts reflect how everyday operations contribute to U-M’s long-term goals,” Rutkofske noted. “Our campus forest plays an important role in maintaining a healthy and welcoming environment for the university community.”
