Critical Issues [1]
The USDA Forest Service's Urban Trees and Forest of the Chicago Region [2], 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 [3] (31.3%)
- Loss of ash due to emerald ash borer [4] (8.1%)
- Recent economic downturn resulting in reduced funding and care for trees [5]
- Lack of regeneration of native oaks [6] in naturalized woodlands
- Increased development and impervious ground cover [7]
- Limited species and age diversity [8] of publicly owned trees
- Lack of education and outreach to private property owners who manage the majority of trees within municipalities
- Changes in climate [9]