By HFT Staff

Aspirus Wausau Hospital was recently named a Tree Campus Healthcare institution by the Arbor Day Foundation for showing its understanding of the vital role trees play in human health. The hospital earned recognition in the foundation’s third year of the program. To receive Tree Campus Healthcare recognition, the hospital met five program standards: an advisory committee; facility tree care plan; community forestry project; a celebration event; and a financial investment toward a tree care plan or projects. 

“We are extremely proud to have earned this distinction,” says Ali Wolf, Aspirus System’s sustainability program director. “Aspirus understands that health care expands beyond the walls of our facilities.” 

The Arbor Day Foundation is the world’s largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. Its Tree Campus Healthcare program aims to transform community health and wellness and ultimately save lives through the health benefits provided by trees, as well as recognize healthcare institutions that make an impact on wellness through tree planting, education and community engagement. 

Tree Campus Healthcare strives to improve human health outcomes by connecting inpatient healthcare facilities of all sizes with local community forestry programs while improving the extent and condition of the community forest. Facilities in the United States delivering inpatient healthcare services are eligible for Tree Campus Healthcare recognition, including hospitals, senior care and other residential rehabilitation properties.