PROTECTING TAMPA'S CANOPY THROUGH RESEARCH AND RESIDENT PARTICIPATION
The City of Tampa and the University of South Florida are conducting the fourth urban ecological analysis of Tampa's tree canopy, and for the first time, researchers have created a new component where residents will play a key role.
Conducted every five years, the urban ecological analysis assesses overall canopy coverage, reports any changes, provides a detailed description of the forest structure and composition, and estimates the economic and ecological values of the City of Tampa's urban forest. This year, researchers are integrating a citizen's component in order to understand the importance of trees in our neighborhoods and public spaces, determine where more information is needed, as well as to hear challenges residents may face when dealing with dead or decaying trees.
"Tampa's lush tree canopy is not only beautiful, but it also provides a variety of ecological, environmental, economic, health, and safety benefits to improve our quality of lives," said Mayor Jane Castor. "However, it is threatened, and this study is imperative in documenting current conditions and areas we need to focus on. As we Transform Tampa's Tomorrow, we must ensure our tree canopy remains healthy and expansive and our residents stay engaged in the process."
Tampa's last urban ecological analysis, conducted in 2016, recorded 9.3 million trees covering more than 27,000 acres.
“We are interested in what you think about the trees in your neighborhood and the City of Tampa’s plans to maintain trees across the area,” said Rebecca Zarger, USF faculty member in the Department of Anthropology. “Participating in our tree survey means your experiences will inform future plans for our urban forest.”
The survey, available in English and Spanish, is anonymous. Please click here to begin.