Tampa's Urban Forest

Tampa's urban forest plays a significant role in maintaining the vitality of urban life. The urban forest provides a wealth of benefits to neighborhoods and communities through the reduction of energy consumption; the removal of pollutants from the air and water; reduction in stormwater flows; increased valuation of private property as well as providing recreational opportunities and aesthetic diversity.

Tampa is a Tree City USA.

Since 1981, Tampa has been nationally designated a TREE CITY USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation. The National Arbor Day Foundation, in cooperation with the U. S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes towns and cities across America that effectively manage their public tree resources and encourage the implementation of community tree management based on four TREE CITY USA standards. To qualify for this honor, a city must have a tree ordinance in place, hold an Arbor Day event, and have a comprehensive urban forestry program.

Trees in our community help clean the air, conserve soil and water, moderate temperature and bring nature into our daily lives. Trees are a vital component of the infrastructure in our community and provide many environmental and economical benefits. A TREE CITY USA designation recognizes the work of elected officials, staff and citizens who plant and care for the community forest. Conservation of our natural resources...It Starts in Parks!

City of Tampa Natural Resources and Urban Forestry Teams

The Natural Resources and Urban Forestry Teams are responsible for the care and maintenance of trees in the City's 178 parks and 1,441 miles of street rights-of-way. This includes proper pruning, planting and removal of hazardous trees for a safe and sustainable tree canopy. Natural Resource and Forestry personnel are experienced tree care professionals, which include five ISA Certified Arborists. Some activities include:

• Removal of dead, dying or dangerous street trees;
• Removal of street tree stumps;
• Pruning of street trees for removal of dead wood and lifting of tree canopies for vehicle access;
• Visual street tree risk assessment evaluations;
• Response to street tree emergencies 24 hours/7 days a week (clearance of tree debris from streets);
• First response during hurricane and storm events; and
• Installation and relocation of large trees in public areas

Community Tree Program

The program fosters the replenishment of Tampa's valuable and gracious tree canopy. Trees are a community resource that provides tangible benefits, in terms of visual and aesthetic attributes, environmental assets, health benefits, and economic value.

The City of Tampa recognizes the benefits of its trees and is committed to the conservation and enhancement of its environment. The Community Tree Program is free and provides individuals and neighborhood associations with trees for planting on City land, greenways, and street right of ways. Contact the Community Tree Program at 274-5166.

• Request Trees - Apply Online.

Helpful Links

City of Tampa Urban Ecological Analysis and Management Plan 2010 - 2012

National Arbor Day Foundation - Find out about historic trees and trees of note. Get special trees and join in the planting.

Tree Link - Comprehensive guide to urban forestry presents a tree identification guide, community forestry event calendars, and national arbor news.

Florida Chapter of the ISA - Find local certified arborist, good information on hiring and arborist and tree grade and standards for Florida.

Florida Urban Forestry Council - Find a membership application, details on the state's grant program, articles on building a sustainable urban forest, and other resources.