Urban and Community Forestry Program
Urban forests are the trees in the cities and neighborhoods where we live. The urban forest includes trees along streets, in parks and natural areas, and in your own backyard. Urban forests provide many important environmental, social, and economic benefits and services too.
Urban forestry is the care and management of these trees in cities. Many cities have an urban forestry or other tree care program that manages trees along city streets and in parks.
In 2021, the ODF Urban and Community Forestry Program celebrated 30 years of service. The program has assisted communities with developing, improving, and expanding their urban forestry programs.
Contact the program to learn how your city can become more involved in urban & community forestry activities.
Latest news
Governor Tina Kotek proclaims April as Oregon Arbor Month
Read the proclamation.
Two Latina women receive Oregon's top urban forestry honors along with southern Oregon non-profit organization
Read the news release.
Funding opportunities
The Urban and Community Forestry All-Entities Subaward Program is now closed. ODF UCF awarded $12.5 million in funding to 28 multifaceted projects and programs across Oregon. These subawards will provide statewide investments in jobs, education, and infrastructure across numerous urban, rural, and suburban communities. Visit the
ODF UCF Subaward Programs webpage for more information.
The UCF Program is also collaborating with the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) on the Community Green Infrastructure Grant, established through
House Bill 3409. To learn more about the Community Green Infrastructure Grant visit the program's website.
Emerald ash borer
Emerald ash borer's arrival in Oregon is bringing changes to our streams and urban forests. As of fall 2024, the invasive pest was confirmed in four counties - Clackamas, Marion, Washington, and Yamhill. Read more about the emerald ash borer's arrival and the state's response. The Oregon Dept. of Agriculture has also placed a wood quarantine on ash, olive, and American fringetree materials covering all four counties where emerald ash borer has been found. The quarantine is an attempt to slow the spread of this insect to the rest of the state. To reach the emerald ash borer specialists, email
invasivepests@odf.oregon.gov.
Resources
Appreciating city trees