A formal tree management plan, also called an urban forestry management plan, can help communities in caring for trees and improving their tree canopy.
A tree management plan can guide local officials to provide trained professionals to care for trees, plant diverse species, and allocate funds for tree maintenance and planning. A management plan can also set standards and formalize practices concerning trees and make sure trees are considered in planning and budgeting.
The plan may include such topics as:
- Tree canopy goals
- Guidelines for tree care
- Criteria for selecting tree planting sites
- Instructions for selecting trees
- Timelines for tree trimming cycles
- Processes for making decisions to remove trees
Resources
Resources are available to help develop a tree management plan.
Community Tree Canopy Summaries
Urban Forest Management Plan Tool Kit from the Inland Urban Forest Council
A tree management plan may also be relevant to a community’s tree preservation ordinance or policies. Learn more about how to build laws to protect trees.