The Perils of downsizing the urban forest

Discusses the results of a study into urban forest trends, including planting smaller-maturing species and smaller sized native forests. [UMN]

"Development practices in our cities have resulted in a "downsizing" of the urban forest. This is reflected in two outcomes; smaller native forest remnants being preserved, and more smaller-maturing trees being planted than larger maturing ones. Recent research conducted by American Forests and the USDA Forest Service in the Pacific Northwest has quantified the benefits lost or forgone from these two circumstances. A modeling research project by the University of Oregon further reveals the impacts future development may have. The findings of these studies reveal the perils of downsizing the urban forest." [Abstract]

[September 17-20, 2003, San Antonio, Texas]