Urban Forestry

The Idea

Community tree plantings provide many benefits for the communities in which they are planted. Shade reduces the urban heat island effect, reduces cooling needs for surrounding areas, and provides shade for walking, living, or playing. Trees filter many pollutants from the air, helping create a healthier environment. Trees help control water in the ground/soil, providing shade that helps prevent evaporation and helping to control flooding during storms. Trees can also provide food. There are many studies on how trees positively impact our health and the urban environment.

A typical community tree planting project would involve approximately 25 trees and this can be in a public space or a privately owned space that would benefit the community. Suitable locations might be a local park, a local school or the grounds of a community center. This guide walks you through some of the practical information and steps you need to take to get a project like this up and running locally. You can apply for funding to cover the cost of your trees, tools and organizing your tree planting day. Get started today