Urban and Community Forestry

Illinois ranks third in the nation for the number of Tree City USA Communities.

Illlinois urban forest adds character to the skyline while helping to manage water resources

Illinois community forest-provides solitude as they reduce noise

Illinois community forest-encourages shoppers to linger longer

Illinois Urban and Community Forestry Program

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Urban and Community Forestry Program is a part of a nearly 5 billion economic engine in Illinois. The state program helps assist municipalities and local units of government in developing, managing, and sustaining local community forestry programs. Illinois citizens benefit from this program by living in and near high-quality, diverse, managed forests within TREE CITY USA communities. These forests are managed for citizen safety, tree health, and aesthetics. Illinois urban and community forests provide 88% of Illinois citizens with the amenity values of shade, protection from winter winds or summer heat, reduced energy costs, improved air quality, protection from noise pollution, reduced carbon dioxide, increased property values, and reduced stormwater infiltration rates. For every dollar spent locally on trees by taxpayers, they received $4 back in public benefits. Trees PAY US BACK!