Urban forests are all the trees and other associated vegetation that grow in places where people live, work and play. This unique forest ecosystem, although completely different from a wildland forest, has many challenges associated with healthy growth and management of urban forests just as rural forests do.
There are probably more than 500 college and university programs in this country and around the world that teach arboriculture and urban forestry courses and a few offer graduate and post-graduate degrees. The Tree Care Industry Association lists these programs for prospective students as well as employers.
The Society of American Foresters, in their Urban Forestry Position Statement, “believes actions and practices that strengthen and improve the urban and community forestry discipline within the broader profession of forestry are vital to the social and economic well-being of the nation. The SAF strongly supports activities and funding levels that promote the establishment, maintenance and sustainability of healthy urban forest ecosystems for all urban communities.” The SAF certifies and supports college level programs that lead to degrees associated with urban forestry.
Working in an Urban Forest
Urban foresters help communities realize and maximize benefits and minimize costs and degradation of the urban forest. Urban foresters and arborists work with communities by providing educational and technical information, offering planning support, and work with specific groups and members of the community for an improved urban forest condition.
These foresters do not live in fire towers or promote the production of forest products - they have to work with individuals and communities to improve city tree management and health.
The Benefits of a Healthy Urban Forest
Trees benefit communities in a number of important ways. Urban foresters are employed by local and state government agencies to promote the following benefits. Urban foresters and arborists are hired by tree care companies to do the heavy lifting demanded by urban forestry planning. A healthy urban forest does these things for the benefit of the urban environment:
· Increases property values · Decreases energy costs · Improves air quality · Reduces storm water runoff · Decreases soil erosion · Improves water quality · Creates wildlife habitat · Increases community pride · Positively impacts consumer behavior · Increases recreational opportunities · Improves health and well-being · Reduces noise levels · Creates buffer zones
