The USDA Forest Service's Urban Trees and Forest of the Chicago Region, describes the regional forest as in a “state of transition”. The following critical issues support this statement and make it clear that our urban forest is in need of help.
- Significant presence of buckthorn and other invasive woody species (31.3%)
- Loss of ash due to emerald ash borer (8.1%)
- Recent economic downturn resulting in reduced funding and care for trees
- Lack of regeneration of native oaks in naturalized woodlands
- Increased development and impervious ground cover
- Limited species and age diversity of publicly owned trees
- Lack of education and outreach to private property owners who manage the majority of trees within municipalities
- Changes in climate
