Town of Greenburgh Street Tree Invetory & Management Plan

In October 2018,  the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) awarded the Town of Greenburgh $59,280 for a comprehensive street tree inventory and management plan. The Town subsequently contracted with consultant Davey Resource Group to conduct the tree inventory and assist the Town in creating a multi-year management plan. Working with the  Department of Community Development and Conservation and Department of Public Works, Davey Resource Group finalized the Tree Inventory in May 2020 and prepared the final copy of the Community Forest Management Plan in October 2020.  

An inspector from Davey Resource Group surveys street trees for the inventory.

Benefits of a Tree Inventory and Management Plan

The results of this project will help Greenburgh better understand its urban forest’s composition, structure, and tree maintenance needs, plan for short-term and long-term resource allocation, and provide a valuable tool for the Town to promote the economic, environmental, and social benefits its trees provide to the community.

The environmental, economic and social benefits of street trees in both residential and commercial districts are well documented. Street trees improve the livability of towns and cities in a number of ways including reducing stormwater runoff, increasing air quality, storing carbon, providing shade and reducing urban heat-island effects. Street trees have also been shown to increase property values, lower average electricity bills of surrounding households, and make a community more walkable and bikeable through the beautification of streets and lowering average driving speeds, making roadways safer for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers alike.  

The information gathered during the tree inventory is will be used by the Town to assist in responding to resident inquiries. The Community Forest Management Plan utilizes this data to strategize and prioritize tree maintenance, planting, and removal. The development of the management plan will also enable the Town to engage residents, educate the public about the Town’s urban forest, and foster community ownership over protecting and enhancing the Town’s forest assets.