WELCOME TO THE URBAN FORESTRY
NETWORK WEBSITE
The benefits of urban forests, also referred to as community forests,
are far-reaching. The social, health, wildlife and economic benefits
attributed to urban forests are definitely worth considering in communities
around the world. Today, there is a growing awareness that integrating
urban forests into our communities offers greater natural benefits.
Urban forests address our natural desires while providing economic
benefits, aesthetic value, improved air and water quality, health
benefits and wildlife habitat among other things.
Hurricane Katrina caused varying degrees of damage to the trees
growing in 181 communities and cities in Mississippi. The Mississippi
Forestry Commission estimated that Katrina caused damage to over
2.7 million trees, having an economic impact of $1.1 billion. The
needs concerning the damage to the urban forests include tree replacement,
removal and repair. Technical assistance, public education and outreach
are needed as communities and cities begin to restore their urban
forests.
To improve the quality of life throughout Mississippi, and restore
the quality of life on the Gulf Coast and in South Mississippi,
technical assistance is needed so home owners and cities, towns
and communities can plan and re establish trees and forests. Emphasis
should be placed on trees that are the most resistant to high winds,
drought and other extreme weather patterns (i.e., live oaks, longleaf
pine and baldcypress).
Although local governments have a general knowledge of tree planting
and tree maintenance, here you will find vital educational information.
Knowing how and what to plant will play a major role in the survival
of the trees planted. Tree maintenance and care instructions are
also included within this site.
This site was funded with grants from the Dalrymple Family Foundation
and the Mississippi Forestry Commission.
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