The Urban and Community Forestry Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service is the only federal program solely dedicated to the stewardship of urban and community trees, forests, and green spaces across the nation. Authorized under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, the program helps states, tribes, and partner organizations apply nature-based solutions to address chronic and emerging economic, social, and environmental challenges.
With 84% of Americans living, working, and recreating in urban areas, the health of urban forests is vital to our nation’s well-being. Our program works collaboratively with communities to enhance the health, resilience, and equity of urban environments through the planting, care, and conservation of trees and forests in cities and towns across the country.
Following the devastating spring 2023 tornadoes that struck communities such as Amory and Rolling Fork in Mississippi and Little Rock in Arkansas, over 20,000 mature trees were lost. In response, Wildlife Mississippi, in partnership with KKAC Organization, Lower Delta Partnership, and The Piney Woods School, committed to planting 100,000 trees to restore and expand tree canopy across these and other affected areas in Mississippi and Arkansas.
This website supports those efforts by offering the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to grow and sustain urban and community forests nationwide.
Benefits of Urban and Community Forests
Urban forests provide cleaner air and water, reduce heat, manage stormwater, store carbon, support wildlife, and promote physical and mental health. They also boost property values, local economies, and community cohesion.
Costs of Urban and Community Forests
Maintaining healthy urban forests requires investment in planting, maintenance, storm recovery, and staffing. This site offers tools to help communities plan budgets, secure funding, and develop cost-effective, long-term programs.
Planning and Best Practices
Strong urban forest planning includes assessing canopy cover, selecting the right species, engaging communities, and setting clear goals. Use our guides, maps, and data tools to design inclusive, climate-smart green spaces.
Forest Management and Maintenance
Urban forests thrive with regular care. Find practical resources on tree health, pruning, storm prep, pest control, and long-term management plans to keep your canopy safe, sustainable, and resilient.
Planning an Ordinance
Tree ordinances protect and guide urban forestry efforts. Explore templates and tips for creating or updating local laws that promote tree preservation, regulate planting/removal, and support long-term forest planning.
ArcMap Geographic Information Systems
Wildlife Mississippi has the staff capacity to use ArcMap Geographic Information System software to analyze and track existing urban forests and newly planted trees as necessary. The organization has used ArcMap to analyze existing tree cover in Rolling Fork and Amory (see images below) to estimate the number and location of trees that were in the path of recent tornadoes.
