Montgomery County’s reforestation efforts are earning national recognition.
The Montgomery County Planning Department announced that its Reforest Montgomery program has received an Award of Merit from the American Planning Association as part of its Excellence in Sustainability Annual Awards. The program was recognized in the Environment, Climate, and Energy category for its work expanding forest cover, strengthening climate resilience, and engaging residents and property owners in reforestation efforts across the county.
Program staff and department leadership accepted the award during the organization’s National Planning Conference in Detroit. “This award is a testament to the dedication of our team and the thousands of residents who have helped us grow a healthier, more resilient forest ecosystem,” said Christina Sorrento, chief of Montgomery Planning’s Environment & Climate Division. “Reforestation and conservation are among the most powerful tools we have to address climate change locally, and we are proud to see our team’s and our community’s commitment recognized on a national stage.”
Launched in 2020 and supported by the Forest Conservation Fund, Reforest Montgomery focuses on planting trees and restoring forested areas throughout the county. The program also provides incentives and resources to help residents and property owners take part in reforestation efforts.
Since its launch, the program has expanded across multiple initiatives. More than 5,000 Native Trees Discount coupons have been used by residents to purchase discounted trees from local nurseries. The Free Shade Trees program has resulted in 976 trees planted countywide as of April 2026, helping increase canopy coverage and reduce urban heat.
Additional efforts include reforestation projects on parkland, where hundreds of large trees and plantings have been added across dozens of acres, as well as programs supporting conservation easements and tree planting in the Agricultural Reserve. Partnerships with Montgomery County Public Schools have also led to dozens of trees being planted on school properties since 2023.
The American Planning Association’s Excellence in Sustainability Awards recognize projects and programs that demonstrate leadership in sustainability planning and implementation. The Environment, Climate, and Energy category specifically highlights initiatives that address climate mitigation, environmental resilience, and related sustainability goals.
