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Trees Virginia, Virginia’s Urban Forest Council, is a non-profit organization committed to advancing the well-being of communities through the stewardship of our Commonwealth’s urban and community trees (Virginia Urban Forest Council, 2023). Their vision is to promote awareness about the intrinsic value of trees, especially in an urban environment (About Trees Virginia, 2023) To fulfill this mission, their goal is strategically focused on enhancing forestlands, increasing people's understanding of why trees matter, and strengthening civic involvement (A Training Manual for Virginia Tree Stewards, 2020).
The Council “is comprised of around 20 members from Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Utility Foresters, Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association, private arborists, landscape architects, and other disciplines” (A. Appling, 2023). Their experts advise the Virginia Department of Forestry’s Urban Forester on the conditions of our state's trees and aid them in the development and implementation of policies. In addition, Trees Virginia will help the Urban Forester to rank grants for urban forestry projects and organize programs throughout the state. Furthermore, the organization hosts workshops to educate the general public. Individuals who volunteer to be Tree Stewards are trained to identify trees, counsel people on tree selection, demonstrate proper tree planting and follow-up care, and guide the removal of invasive plants that threaten trees.
By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, Trees Virginia is able to contribute significantly to achieving sustainability goals related to urban forestry and environmental conservation within the state (A. Appling, 2023). They coordinate with the USDA Forest Service and local governments, as well as non-government organizations, to ensure that sustainable practices are implemented, and progress is maintained.
Ashley Appling (2023). Trees Virginia Info. Email.