Arbor Day is Friday, April 30. This worldwide event helps raise awareness of trees and the important role that they play in our environment. You can honor this day by sharing your thoughts on trees as part of the Philly Tree Plan.

The Philly Tree Plan is a ten-year strategic plan for the planting and care of the urban forest. It is based on values of environmental justice, community engagement, and sustainability.

Three options to provide your feedback!

The Philly Tree Plan will focus on the perspectives and experiences of Philadelphians. There are three ways residents can share their story:

1) Take the Survey! This is the easiest way to share feedback. The survey takes seven to 10 minutes to complete. It is translated into 8 languages. The survey will gauge:

  • How Philadelphians relate to trees.
  • Perceived and real barriers to tree planting.
  • Areas for improvement.

2) Post your pics for the Photography Challenge! For those who love to take photos and have a story about a tree to share. Post it on Instagram using hashtag #PhillyTreeStories to win cash and prizes.

3) Discover the Virtual Open House! For those who want more information. Take a little more time to explore three self-guided presentations:

  • What is the urban forest and why is it important.
  • Why Philadelphia’s urban forest is not equitably distributed.
  • How the Philly Tree Plan is being developed and how it will support communities.

Neighborhood Ambassadors

The Philly Tree Plan team is also engaging the community in priority neighborhoods. Five neighborhoods were selected based on environmental justice criteria including:

  • Proximity to industrial areas.
  • Air quality.
  • Public health factors.
  • Demographic characteristics.

Neighborhood Ambassadors were recruited from these areas for a six-week stipend-based program. They will:

  • Conduct interviews with neighbors.
  • Complete visual storytelling exercises.
  • Help inform the Tree Plan recommendations.

The public engagement efforts will be active from April 12 through mid-June. The draft Philly Tree Plan will be presented for public comment in September 2021.

What’s the urban forest?

The urban forest means all of the trees in the city. This includes:

  • Street trees.
  • Yard trees.
  • Trees on college, corporate or medical campuses.
  • Trees in parks and natural areas.

Find more information on the Philly Tree Plan webpage.

What should the Philly Tree Plan be?
Visit the Engagement Hub! Tell us how trees are important to you and your community, take a survey, or enter our photo challenge.