goals & benefits

Simply put, the “urban forest” is the tree cover in our city. While urban development is constantly expanding, cities are also proactively growing their urban canopy with local tree-planting initiatives.

goals

#1 - Preserve, manage and expand tree canopy

Durham, NC covers approximately 116 square miles. In 2017, a canopy study showed that Durham’s urban trees cover 52% of the city’s area. However, the number of mature street trees is in decline: Durham has seen a period of rapid growth and urbanization which has coincided with the loss of many of its iconic street trees. Our goal is to reduce canopy loss and increase it to 55% by 2040 while simultaneously reducing potential risk from downed trees.

#2 - Maximize benefits for all residents

Urban trees have many benefits including shade, stormwater regulation, reduction of air pollutants, and increases in physical and mental health. Trees will be planted where they can have the greatest impact, such as in areas with low canopy coverage, higher heat intensity, and poorer air and water quality.

#3 - cultivate Support for the Urban Forest

We all have a shared responsibility to caring for our environment. We aim to engage residents, non-profits, community organizations, and various levels of government towards collective canopy preservation and expansion through educational outreach, volunteer plantings and tree care, and more.

Why Tree Planting Matters

Trees are important assets for Durham. They lower temperatures, increase air and water quality, control storm-water runoff, noise and light pollution, provide wildlife habitat, improve physical and mental health, and much more.

According to a 2020 estimate, Durham’s street trees provide $674,605 in annual benefits. On top of that, the U.S. Forest Services’ iTree Cover Assessment and Tree Benefits Report determined that trees in our city parks, cemeteries, and medians provide over $1.4 million in ecosystem services annually.

A successful tree planting program ensures that these benefits are provided to both current and future Durham residents.