Neighborhood Urban Forest Stewardship

The Bolin Forest and Quarterpath Trace neighborhoods, with support from Green Roots Environmental Design, have recently collaborated to pursue a neighborhood-driven forest stewardship campaign. The effort has included invasive plant management, a community workshop at the Century Center, and preparation of a report. The report "presents a holistic approach informed by a synthesis of ecological restoration and urban forestry management strategies." Relatively healthy and mature forest canopy, adjacent large tracts of open land and extensive trail networks all contribute to the value and benefits that the neighborhood enjoys. However, conditions including overgrown areas of invasive species, impervious surfaces and even common landscape management practices contribute to negative impacts such as impaired water quality, soil compaction and limited species diversity. The report highlights current conditions that the community should be aware of, as well as factors that will effect the health of the urban forest in the future. Strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities are presented under these four broad headings:

Preserve and Restore
Maintain, enhance and expand the benefits of the urban forest.

Plan and Coordinate
Foster coordination between agencies, stakeholders, residents and industry professionals to support stewardship of the urban forest.

Inspire and Educate
Engage the community while increasing understanding of the urban forest and the benefits it provides.

Understand and Adapt
Collect records and information to guide and sustain stewardship of the urban forest.

The following fact sheets were produced by Green Roots and are offered to support stewardship and ecological restoration efforts.

Selecting Desirable Tree Species

Balled and Burlapped Trees

Container Plants

Managing Japanese Stiltgrass

Consulting a Pro