The Importance of Trees

Trees, along with the canopy formed by their branches and leaves, and the network of roots below the soil, are essential to our community. They make Salem more livable and beautiful. Trees are a key part of our city's natural infrastructure, which includes streams, wetlands, meadows, soils, and natural areas. Together, they provide many economic, environmental, and social benefits. 

Maintaining Our Urban Forest

Just like our built infrastructure, such as streets and storm drains, our urban forest needs care and protection. We must maintain it to ensure that it continues to grow and provide benefits to our community in the future. 

Working Together for Our Urban Forest

Planning for, protecting, growing, and tracking our urban forest is a challenging task. It requires staff with various skills, technical expertise, and special equipment, as well as consultants, contractors, and volunteers to achieve our urban forest goals. By working together, we aim to care for city-owned trees and help Salem's residents plant and care for their own trees. This teamwork benefits the entire community.