Urban and Community Forestry - Engaging Communities through Tree Stewardship

Trees are an integral component of livable communities, immensely adding to the quality of life in the Hudson Valley. They filter the air we breathe, safeguard private and public drinking water sources, produce locally grown forest products, provide essential habitat for wildlife, and provide energy conservation by moderating summer and winter temperatures near homes. Research has shown they also provide ecological and social Benefits. Benefits of Trees.  Trees act as meeting places, historical markers and can be a living memorial to our loved ones. By providing these benefits, trees reduce a community’s costs for services and infrastructure while offering residents aesthetic and recreational amenities as well as increased property values.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County is planning an in-depth training program and outreach education for the Hudson Valley that will provide the green industry, municipalities, utility arborists and community volunteers with the necessary tools to maintain the health of trees in their communities and mitigate potential storm damage and loss of tree health due to invasive species. SAVE THE DATES: September 19,26, October 3, 17, 18, 2019 for a comprehensive 35-hour training program that will cover all aspects of tree care and pest management. Location for the training will be at Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County (CCEDC) and other satellite locations throughout the Hudson Valley for the fieldwork portion of the training. An optional Tree Steward Certification Exam will be offered to participants wishing to enhance their professional credentials. A limited number of scholarships will be available for municipal workers.  For more information contact Stephanie Radin, sradin@cornell.edu or Joyce Tomaselli, jdt225@cornell.edu.

For more information and resources on urban and community forestry: Cornell Urban Horticulture Institute

Community Forestry: Community Forestry Resources

National Arbor Foundation: Arbor Day

NYSDEC Urban Forestry Information: Urban forestry Resources

NYS Urban Forestry Council: NYSUFC

Get Involved: NYS Releaf


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Last updated August 26, 2020