The Arbor Day Foundation has honored Metro Council President David Bragdon with its 2010 Excellence in Urban Forest Leadership Award. Bragdon was chosen for his instrumental role in Metro's efforts to protect and restore forest and park lands.
Each year, the Arbor Day Foundation honors individuals and organizations involved in outstanding tree planting and environmental practices. Its award for Excellence in Urban Forest Leadership recognizes innovative leadership in advancing sustainable community forestry efforts.
Bragdon feels he does not stand alone in the efforts being recognized by the foundation.
"This is an award for the people of the region, and our agency, not for me. By investing in and restoring our forests and natural areas now, Metro is creating a legacy for the future," Bragdon said. "Residents of the region are establishing a way of life in which the sustainability of our forests and greenspaces and clean air and water are a priority."
Under Bragdon's leadership, Metro passed a $227.4 million bond measure to assure the ongoing purchase of land for parks and natural areas throughout the region. The funds generated from the 2006 measure and those from a prior measure have allowed Metro to preserve and restore more than 10,000 acres of forests, rare woodlands, stream corridors, wetlands and prairies.
Among the other projects Bragdon has lead is the development of The Intertwine, a network of trails, parks and natural areas that connects homes, jobs and schools throughout the Portland-Vancouver area. Bragdon also helped establish The Intertwine Alliance, a coalition of businesses, nonprofits and public agencies that work together to create and promote this valuable system of paths and open spaces.
Bragdon will accept the award from the Arbor Day Foundation at a ceremony on May 1, 2010, in Nebraska City, Nebraska, the home of Arbor Day.