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DACF News Release
*Press Release
*May 23, 2025
Viles Arboretum, Augusta, Maine
*Governor Mills Presents Tree Farmer of the Year and Celebrates Arbor Week with Tree City USA Awards*
This morning, Governor Janet Mills joined Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Commissioner Amanda Beal and Maine Forest Service Director Patty Cormier at the Viles Arboretum to celebrate Maine Arbor Week and recognize communities and individuals for their exceptional contributions to forestry and environmental stewardship.
The Governor presented Jay and Kathryn Libby with the 2025 Maine Outstanding Tree Farm Award, honoring their exemplary forest management and dedication to sustainable practices.
Governor Mills with teh Libbys [ [link removed] ]
"From left: DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal, Kathryn and Jay Libby, Governor Mills, State Forester Patty Cormier, Project Canopy Coordinator Jan Santerre (MFS Photo) (Download [ [link removed] ])"
Jay and Kathryn Libby manage a 120-acre woodlot in Cornville. Their forest is a diverse and thriving ecosystem made up of maple, white pine, spruce, fir, hemlock, white ash, red oak, and birch species. With support from their consulting foresters, the Libby’s demonstrate a thoughtful approach to land management. Their goals include improving timber quality, maintaining recreational access for family and friends, and preserving the natural character of their land for future generations. Their care and commitment exemplify the spirit of the Tree Farm Program [ [link removed] ] and serve as a model for woodland stewardship across Maine.
The ceremony also celebrated municipalities and institutions receiving Tree City USA and Tree Campus USA recognition, awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the Maine Forest Service - Project Canopy.
These awards highlight Maine's continued commitment to the care and management of public trees, the education of future stewards, and the enhancement of community well-being through urban forestry.
*Tree City USA Awards were presented to:*
* Auburn – 22 years
* Augusta – 29 years
* Bangor – 20 years & Growth Award
* Bath – 28 years
* Brunswick – 8 years
* Camden – 27 years
* Castine – 16 years
* Cumberland – 1 year
* Ellsworth – 4 years
* Farmington – 48 years & Growth Award
* Hallowell – 22 years
* Kennebunkport – 48 years
* Lewiston – 22 years
* Orono – 29 years
* Portland – 45 years
* Saco – 15 years
* South Portland – 45 years
* Westbrook – 48 years
* Yarmouth – 46 years
*Tree Campus USA Awards were presented to:*
* Bowdoin College, Brunswick – 3 years
* Colby College, Waterville – 7 years
*The Outstanding Tree Farm of the Year Award* is one of Maine’s highest honors for family forest owners. The award recognizes exemplary stewardship and a deep commitment to sustainable forest management. Since 1954, it has celebrated individuals or families who successfully balance ecological health with economic sustainability, ensuring the long-term vitality of Maine’s woodland resources.
*Project Canopy [ [link removed] ]* is Maine's urban and community forestry program, managed by the Maine Forest Service within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Its mission is to create and maintain healthy urban and community forests that provide economic, ecological, and quality-of-life benefits for Maine residents.
*MEDIA CONTACT:
*Jim Britt <
[email protected]> - (207) 480-0558
*Additional Photos*
Governor Mills with the Libbys [ [link removed] ]
Governor Mills with Jay and Kathryn Libby (download [ [link removed] ])
Maine State Government is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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