This
site was funded with grants from the Dalrymple Family Foundation
and the
Mississippi Forestry Commission.
| WELCOME TO THE URBAN FORESTRY
NETWORK WEBSITE The benefits of urban forests, also referred to as community forests, are far-reaching. The social, health, wildlife and economic benefits attributed to urban forests are definitely worth considering in communities around the world. Today, there is a growing awareness that integrating urban forests into our communities offers greater natural benefits. Urban forests address our natural desires while providing economic benefits, aesthetic value, improved air and water quality, health benefits and wildlife habitat among other things. Hurricane Katrina caused varying degrees of damage to the trees growing in 181 communities and cities in Mississippi. The Mississippi Forestry Commission estimated that Katrina caused damage to over 2.7 million trees, having an economic impact of $1.1 billion. The needs concerning the damage to the urban forests include tree replacement, removal and repair. Technical assistance, public education and outreach are needed as communities and cities begin to restore their urban forests. To improve the quality of life throughout Mississippi, and restore the quality of life on the Gulf Coast and in South Mississippi, technical assistance is needed so home owners and cities, towns and communities can plan and re establish trees and forests. Emphasis should be placed on trees that are the most resistant to high winds, drought and other extreme weather patterns (i.e., live oaks, longleaf pine and baldcypress). Although local governments have a general knowledge of tree planting and tree maintenance, here you will find vital educational information. Knowing how and what to plant will play a major role in the survival of the trees planted. Tree maintenance and care instructions are also included within this site. This site was funded with grants from the Dalrymple Family Foundation
and the Mississippi Forestry Commission. |
Maintenance
