The City of Frederick has renewed its designation as an official Bird City, a recognition granted by Bird City Maryland. This renewal follows the completion of 30 action points, all aimed at enhancing bird habitats and promoting conservation efforts. Notably, the Cooler Neighborhoods program, launched in 2025 with the assistance of the local nonprofit Mobilize Frederick, contributed to the renewal by increasing tree canopy cover in areas surrounding Title I schools. In its inaugural year, the program successfully planted 198 trees, with over half located in marginalized census tracts affected by pollution and underinvestment.
Frederick first achieved Bird City recognition in 2024, and its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability is further evidenced by its dual designations as a Bee City and a 45-year status as a Tree City, the first of its kind in Maryland. Additionally, the city earned silver-level certification from Sustainable Maryland in 2025, thanks in part to its various bird-friendly initiatives. The Bird City Maryland program aims to improve habitats while fostering community engagement in conservation efforts.
As part of its renewal application, Frederick undertook several actions across four key categories: Habitat, Threats to Birds, Education and Engagement, and Sustainability. Among these initiatives, a native landscape was established at Max Kehne Memorial Park, featuring five native plants that bloom throughout the growing season to support local insects and pollinators. The city also employs Integrated Pest Management strategies to reduce pesticide and herbicide use, opting for mechanical removal and biological controls to manage invasive species.
In a creative outreach effort, Frederick engaged the community through a social media campaign to select its Signature Bird, which resulted in the Black-crowned Night Heron being chosen. This bird, affectionately named Midnight Heronson, serves as a mascot for sustainability initiatives and is often seen alongside the city’s Sustainability Outreach Coordinator, Lauren Paulet. Additionally, residents can participate in a USDA-funded residential composting pilot program facilitated by Compost Crew, further promoting local environmental stewardship.
Read the original article at City of Frederick