Urban Forest Management Plan
An urban forest is made up of every tree in our city, including in our yards, streets, ravines and parks! This plan will help care for and protect every tree in Vaughan.
The City of Vaughan has developed its first Urban Forest Management Plan (PDF). The plan includes:
- information on the current state of Vaughan’s urban forest.
- a long-term vision to manage the urban forest.
- goals, recommendations and targets to achieve the vision.
- a financial analysis to guide implementation.
As part of this plan, the City also developed a Woodland Management Strategy (PDF) to guide the management of all City-owned woodlands. The term woodland describes groupings of trees growing under natural forest conditions.
Year 1 Annual Report
The Urban Forest Management Plan Year 1 Annual Report (PDF) was presented at the Sept. 17 Committee of the Whole (Working Session) and approved at the Sept. 22 Council Meeting.
Background
Vaughan’s urban forest includes all the trees, vegetation, soils and ecosystem components within the City’s municipal boundary. It includes all trees growing in Vaughan, including City-owned street trees, park trees, natural woodlands and trees on private land in urban and rural areas. Basically, if a tree has roots anywhere in our city, you can bet it will be cared for through the Urban Forest Management Plan.
Trees are an important resource. They are integral to the city's character and enhance the quality of life for our community. They provide oxygen; improve mental and physical health; provide shelter for insects, birds and other animals; and provide shade and food for humans and animals, like fruits and nuts. They also cool the air, save water, reduce noise pollution, capture stormwater runoff and beautify the community.
