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Growing stronger: The advantages of the NJ Urban and Community Forestry Program By Randi K. Rothmel, ANJEC Project Director U rban forestry involves the planting, maintenance, care and protection of tree populations in an urban setting. Urban forests make up a significant amount of America's tree canopy and these trees provide essential benefits for humans and habitat for urban wildlife. Cherry trees in Branch Brook Park, Newark Photo by E Koppel Trees located in home landscapes, schoolyards, parks and greenbelts, cemeteries, and along solutions to help local governments create streams, streets and utility rights-of-way are and maintain programs for managing and all part of the urban community forest. It is preserving their tree resources. This statewide program is authorized by the NJ an ecological network combining natural Shade Tree and Community Forestry and built environments. Assistance Act (NJSA 13:1L-17.1 et.seq.). How do urban and community forestry programs help? Urban and community forestry programs ensure more livable communities through the care and management of trees. Neglected urban trees, especially along streets, can decline in health and become a liability with reduced life spans. But with proper care, trees live longer, look better and increase in value as they age. The New Jersey Urban and Community Forestry Program (NJUCF) provides creative 22 ANJEC REPORT – Autumn Autumn 2024 2024 How can local governments participate in the program? Municipalities and county governments can be become accredited with the NJUCF program by satisfying these requirements: • Prepare a Stewardship Plan for Urban Trees and Forests, approved by the State Forester. • Have two representatives (one municipal employee and one volunteer) complete the NJUCF core training.