Demopolis improved in this year’s America in Bloom report, moving up to a 4 Bloom rating.

The city earned 728 points out of 1,000 possible. In 2011, Demopolis had 712 points and a 3 Bloom rating.

The awards look at seven criteria: overall impression, community involvement, environmental awareness, heritage, urban forestry, landscape and floral displays, across municipal, residential and commercial sectors.

“We have a lot of work left to do but what we have accomplished in two years have made a tremendous difference in our city, and I’m very proud of that,” said city horticulturist Barbara Blevins. “Thanks to everyone!”

In addition to the 4 Bloom rank, the city was also nominated for the “Heritage Preservation” award, being one of the top nominees in that category. Demopolis was also nominated for another special award, “The Community Festival That Draws The Most Attendance.”

Specially trained judges visited towns of similar populations and spent two days touring each town, meeting municipal officials, residents, and volunteers. Additional competitors in Demopolis’ category were Belpre, Ohio; Charles City, Iowa; and Greendale, Ind.

Judges Alex Pearl and Dwight Lund were in Demopolis on May 1-2 to complete their evaluations.

The judges commented, “Demopolis is a community that takes pride in its traditions and history. It builds on these traits to have a stable economy. Demopolis offers a quality of life that invigorates the populace through the arts and environment.”

America in Bloom promotes nationwide beautification through education and community involvement by encouraging the use of flowers, plants, trees and other environment and lifestyles enhancements.