From Leah Haynie, City of Austin:

The City of Austin is currently accepting nominations for Austin’s 2009 Tree of the Year Award. Each year, one large and one small tree within the Austin city limits will be recognized.  Look for trees that are native, healthy and beautiful. Nominations are due by Wednesday, July 8, 2009. 

A nomination form may be found at www.cityofaustin.org/treeoftheyear. A form may also be picked up at local plant nurseries or the Zilker Garden Center. 

Winners will be chosen by a committee of representatives from Parks and Recreation, Austin Energy, Watershed Protection and Development Review, the University of Texas and the community. The large and small tree category winners will be honored at an event in October or early November. Each winner will receive a $50 gift certificate to a local nursery.

For additional information, please visit the website at www.cityofaustin.org/treeoftheyear, email the program at treeoftheyear@..., or call Leah Haynie at (512) 482-5342.

Leah Haynie