The Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council recently announced its annual awards honoring those dedicated to protecting, preserving and increasing the number of trees that line city streets, fill community parks and beautify neighborhoods throughout the state. The City of Wauwatosa is among the most forward-thinking cities in the state in urban forestry innovation.

The Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council advises the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on managing urban and community forest resources. “Each year, these awards remind me of how special the people are in our industry and the numerous accomplishments they fulfill,” said Lee Fredericks, Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council Award Committee Chair. This year’s recipients were announced at the 2025 Wisconsin Arborist Association/DNR Urban Forestry Conference.

Alex Krutsch and the Wauwatosa Forestry Department has been awarded the Innovation Award for the Tosa Tree Dashboard and virtual tree tour. The dashboard is updated in real time from the field and allows users to click on any tree where details, facts, and the maintenance history will be displayed. The virtual tree tour includes information and high-quality photos from different perspectives detailing the tree species in public spaces. The Wauwatosa Forestry Department is being recognized for setting an example for other communities of how to be proactive and engage the public in new and interesting ways. 

Other Categories and winners are: 

The Species Diversity Award: Thom Berres for promoting tree diversity in Sussex, WI.

The Leadership Award: Jay Weiss for his work in the Village of Cambridge, WI.

The Lifetime Achievement Award: Mark Freberg and Michael Yanny

The Project Partnership Award: Komatsu and Milwaukee Parks Foundation

The Next Gen Award: Willow River Company for the annual Build by Future trade show.