- Recognize community involvement and public participation as the driving force behind decision-making and achieving long-term goals
- Promote the environmental, economic, social and aesthetic benefits of trees as necessary elements of a thriving city and region
- Increase awareness of urban forest issues and TFW initiatives among Wilmington leaders and residents
- Incorporate professional tree care standards, best management practices and urban forestry research as integral components of progressive city planning and policy
- Support the tree care efforts of neighborhood groups, not-for-profit partners, public stakeholders, city agencies and economic development groups through enhanced coordination of projects and policies
- Establish goals and guidelines for increasing tree cover, species diversity and public safety
- Develop a comprehensive urban forest management plan that addresses both short- and long-term goals
- Implement this plan with diverse funding support that reflects the status of city trees as vital community assets
