2023 Stewardship Award Honorees
For the third year in a row, Tree Davis board and staff have faciliated a nomination and selection process for the Stewardship Awards. Residents and stakeholders submitted a number of worthy candidates, and Tree Davis’ Events Committee selected the honorees based on their impact. All of the awardees exemplify the spirit and style of what is needed to make our communities truely healthy and resilient. These honorees will be publicly recognized at the Legacy Celebration event on November 4th, 2023.
Community Advocate - Alan Hirsch
We would like to highlight Alan Hirsch as an amazing community advocate. For the past several years, Alan has selflessly been the “Davis Lorax”, speaking on behalf of the urban forest and educating city council members, commissions, and the public. His efforts have led to important change in city policies and practices, bettering the health of Davis trees and communities as a whole.
Community Volunteer - Dave Beale
One community volunteer whose work has stood out is Dave Beale, who serves as a steward for N Street Park. Dave was already working on his own to care for the park, and then last March, Tree Davis partnered with the City of Davis and the Davis Manor neighborhood to revitalize this park. Dave has been there every step of the way, from plant and irrigation installation to nearly daily maintenance of this beautiful space. We are so grateful to work with volunteers like Dave.
Community Action Group - Denali Drive (Holly Moen & Cindy Nelson)
The award for notable community action group goes to the Denali Drive Planters, led by Holly Moen and Cindy Nelson. These community members saw a need on their street, and worked to rally their neighbors into making positive change. Today, Denali Drive is a beautiful block full of sustainable greenery from corner to corner. The time, effort, and personal resources that this group has given to accomplish these projects is truly inspiring.
Urban Forestry Professional - John Lichter
We are honoring John Lichter as a noteworthy urban forestry professional. Prior to retiring earlier this year, John spent years making meaningful contributions to urban forestry and arboriculture practices and technologies throughout this region. We would like to highlight just a few of his vast accomplishments, including co-founding Tree Davis in 1992 and the creation of Tree Associates. Many tree owners, space managers, and professionals have benefitted from working and learning from John.
Remarkable Tree Grove - Cranbrook Apartments
Last but not least, we want to put a spotlight on Cranbrook Apartments for having and maintaining a remarkable tree grove on their property. This well shaded apartment complex is home to hundreds of trees that were planted 50 years ago, now supplying 50% canopy coverage. These trees are a highlight for both residents and employees at this site, and we are happy to see such wonderful tree stewardship by managers and owners of this property.