Sandy Springs Urban Forest Coordinator William “Willie” Park has received the Georgia Tree Council’s 2024 Outstanding Urban Arboriculture Grand Award.
Park was honored during its Annual Excellence in Urban Forestry Awards Luncheon held on Nov. 6 at Jekyll Island.
“Sandy Springs is home to more than 20 parks and 22 miles of trails along the Chattahoochee River. Our urban forest has become a defining feature of the community, and this award is a testament to Willie’s dedication to both preserving nature and serving the public,” Recreation and Parks Director Brent Walker said in a news release.
Park was recognized for his service and innovative leadership in urban forestry and awarded a framed, limited-edition print of the “Jekyll Island Plantation Oak” by late artist Barry Nehr.
Park, a graduate of Emory University, oversees the City of Sandy Springs environmental stewardship initiatives, ensuring the city’s status as both a Tree City USA and a Tree City of the World, the release said.
He created the Sandy Springs Eco-Stewards Program, designed for residents to engage with the city’s greenspaces and distinctive urban forest. Through the program, he trains others to educate, lead volunteers, and collaborate with diverse partners, all aimed at fostering community-wide environmental literacy.
