Key Findings from Research in Northern Delaware
If we do not change urban forest management in Wilmington, less than half of our current public trees will exist in 30 years.
Municipalities that manage their urban forest for growth and sustainability will see an exponential return on investment over time. The greatest benefits will be realized if urban forests are managed for the following specific factors: increased numbers of trees, a higher percentage of tree canopy, greater diversity of native species, minimal invasive species, and larger shade trees.
One of the most sobering discoveries from the research is the extent to which Wilmington is loosing its tree canopy. Street trees in particular have a relatively short life span because of the urban stresses they endure such as reflected heat and compacted soils. They are also more vulnerable to diseases and insect infestations that attack specific species, because our street tree population is now composed largely of just a few types. Even when a large tree dies naturally and is replaced, it still takes many years for that young sapling to generate an equal value in services that had been provided by its predecessor.
