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Urban and Community Forestry Program


People sitting at a park table in the shade of mature trees, next to a park and bridge. Subtext reads "The Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry Program delivers nature-based solutions to ensure a resilient and equitable tree canopy in cities, towns, and suburbs where more than 84 percent of Americans live."

About the Urban and Community Forestry Program

The Urban and Community Forestry Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service is the only Federal program dedicated to growing and maintaining urban and community trees, forests, and green spaces. Authorized under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, Urban Forestry assists States and partner organizations in applying nature-based solutions to chronic and emergent economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Key program facts:

  • Dedicated to improving the conditions of forests in urban communities where 84 percent of Americans live, work, and play.

  • Works with partners to improve the health and vibrancy of communities through planting and maintaining trees, forests, and green spaces.

  • Traditionally funded at $36-40 million annually, including an approximate $1 million per year challenge cost share grant program delivered in collaboration with the National Urban & Community Forestry Advisory Council.

Technology and Science Delivery

The Forest Service’s National Urban Forest Technology & Science Delivery Team delivers quality urban natural resources science, technology, and information to improve the long-term sustainability of urban ecosystems.

The team’s mission is to help inform environmental stewardship and sustainability with sound decisions about urban and community lands and the broader watershed, for wildlife and people.

Vibrant cities

Vibrant Cities Lab provides tools, research syntheses, and case studies to help the public discover how a healthy tree canopy can enrich their own community.

Use our Step-by-Step Guide to implement urban forestry in your community.

Regional Urban & Community Forestry Programs 

map of Forest Service Regions

Contact Us

https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/urban-forests/ucf