Urban Forestry

Trees provide benefits that are fundamental to our city's livability. Clean air and water, cooler streets and homes, beauty, and wildlife habitat are essential elements to the health and comfort of any city.

 An urban forest consists of all the trees and vegetation that exist within a City. This includes the trees along the streets, the trees and shrubs and other plants of commercial and residential landscaping, and the parks and natural areas. This forest plays an important, yet often overlooked, role in establishing healthy places for people to live.  The urban forest contributes to the economic, social, and environmental well-being of our community. Becoming more aware of the values the urban forest provides our community is a first step toward protecting and enhancing the quality of life we all enjoy.  

Benefits of the Urban Forest

Mission
The mission of the Urban Forestry Division is to enhance the community forest by providing information and education to residents, businesses and civic organizations regarding the benefits of trees and the urban forest canopy.
 
Objectives

Provide a sustainable urban forestry program, increase the density and diversity of the urban forest canopy and improve the overall health of the urban forest.

Program Description

  • Provide information and assistance to the community about all aspects of tree care.
  • Coordinate tree planting projects in the City right-of-ways, parks and green spaces.
  • Maintain pruning schedule for street tree plantings, evaluate trees for removal and replacement and maintain the street tree inventory.
  • Coordinate annual Arbor Week events and Tree City USA applications.
  • Recognize exceptional landscaping efforts through the Beautificaiton Awards Program.
  • Enforce City Ordinances regarding trees, administer the Commercial Tree Service Licensing Program and review landscape development plans.

Yes, La Grande is a designated Tree City USA community!