The city has hired Urban Canopy Works, LLC., a woman-owned urban forest planning firm, to lead the community in an initiative to reduce the effects of climate change, address environmental justice inequities, and improve quality of life for residents.  Storms and drought are becoming more frequent and severe and trees and tree canopy cover play a big role in keeping cities livable, though they are under threat according to a press release issued this morning by the city’s spokeswomen.

In addition, you are invited to attend a public workshop on Thursday September 17th to learn more about the Urban Forest Management Plan.  It runs from 5:00 pm 7:00 pm at Merrill Auditorium Rehersal Hal;, 20 Myrtle Street Portand.    Learn about the current state of Portland’s urban forest and provide your input about the future of the city’s tree canopy.

This effort comes in the face of ongoing tree loss from storms, drought heat levels, pests, and population growth and related construction. Without a shift in strategy and investment, Portland is likely to face a continued and growing deficit in its tree canopy — one that will affect environmental quality, climate resilience and overall livability.

This long-term strategy plan will examine Portland’s tree canopy, its accessibility to all residents and where changes are occurring; review how the city of Portland manages trees; and understand the priorities of the community to create a roadmap for work over the next decade within the entire urban forest – not just the trees on public lands.  In fact, in most cities, the majority of trees (70%+) are located on private land.  This work must thereforre be a community-driven effort.

The cost to the city for this project was not disclosed in the press release.