A long-range plan to protect our canopy

The City of Charlotte and TreesCharlotte, in partnership with the community, completed an urban forest master plan in 2017. This plan is a guide to maintain, protect and enhance Charlotte’s already extensive tree canopy cover. This vital city asset requires proactive care and protection, especially with the city’s high rates of growth and development. The forest needs constant care and replenishment.

The plan was developed with input from nearly 3,000 Charlotte residents, along with expert analysis from Davey Tree Service. It includes study findings, action steps, and how you can help Charlotte become a more vibrant community by caring for its urban forest.

See the comprehensive Urban Forest Master Plan.

To address the challenges and to maintain and enhance Charlotte’s tree canopy, the master plan identified four initial goals: 

	A comprehensive organization structure, or Canopy Team, with adjusted roles for the City of Charlotte and TreesCharlotte
	A new canopy assessment to allow for further study of the impacts of development and aging trees
	A proactive management plan by the city for the care and replacement of Charlotte’s 180,000 street trees
	Broad and meaningful engagement of Charlotte residents in tree plantings, tree care and advocacy