open house & Presentation
Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Downtown Library
costin room
6:00-8:00 PM
Light refreshments served

Learn about the City's recent street tree inventory, the health of our trees, and How public street trees benefit our community

Click here for event flyer (PDF)

The Community & Economic Development Division works with the Department of Public Works to promote awareness of the community benefits of trees. Planning staff also seek grants and partnerships to evaluate, protect and enhance the city's tree resources.

What is urban & community forestry? 

According to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR): "Urban and community forests are the trees, plants and associated ecosystems anywhere where people are - country roads in rural towns, new developments in the suburbs, or concrete neighborhoods in cities and old mill towns. Our landscape is a continuum from rural forest to city center." For more information, click here.

Why are urban trees in the public interest?

1. More beautiful neighborhoods = higher property values
2. Lower heating and cooling costs due to shading and wind protection
3. Reduced flooding and associated damage as trees drink large amounts of water
4. Reduced infrastructure costs as trees slow the amount of water entering storm drains and pipes
5. Improved air and environmental quality reduces health care costs

Who can I contact if I have a concern about a treeS in My Neighborhood?

Please see this page from the Department of Public Works for information about their forestry management initiatives, or to contact the City Tree Warden.