Urban forests provide a valuable array of services for cities, from improving neighborhood aesthetics to helping residents save money by keeping building energy costs down.  But city life is tough for trees—droughts and compacted soil keep water from reaching roots, canine waste can burn tree bark, growing spaces are small, and trees are even physically vandalized.     

Maintaining the health and longevity of New York City’s urban forest helps the city make the most out of its green spaces.  However, limited resources make it difficult to care for all of New York City’s park and street trees.  The over 8 million residents in New York City can help by volunteering to manage their local resources.    

We provide research-based tools, opportunities, and programs for urban residents to engage with their environment and become stewards of their urban forests. 

A city resident examines a tree with its bark removed, likely from a car accident.