The equitable distribution of trees throughout cities ensures that all neighborhoods have access to the multitude of health and climate resilience benefits of urban forests. Many cities have urban forest management plans, and it is critical that these plans incorporate elements such as community ownership and engagement goals, establishment and maintenance plans, climate-resilient species selection guidance, and educational resources for the public.
Urban food forests are also an exciting trend within the equitable urban forest movement, as they provide greater ecological value than trees alone, as well as opportunities for the community to access locally grown produce and get involved with planning and stewardship of these spaces. Well-designed and stewarded food forests contribute to increased biodiversity, greater potential to mitigate climate challenges such as heat and flooding, and opportunities for food sovereignty.
Join us to hear about Cleveland’s Tree Plan, including action strategies, key partnerships, maintenance goals, climate resilience strategies, and neighborhood-based reforestation efforts. We’ll also hear about Denver’s work in establishing 20 food forests across the city in less than two years, and how they’ve focused on partnerships, stewardship, and meeting communities’ needs.