140 likes | 245 Views
Alabama’s U rban & C ommunity F orestry Program. “Framework for a Better Urban Forest”. Neil Letson. State Urban Forestry Coordinator. June 10, 2008. What is U&CF Program?. U&CF Program Elements. U&CF Program Accomplishments. 46 urban foresters 16 urban forest management plans
E N D
Alabama’sUrban &Community Forestry Program “Framework for a Better Urban Forest” Neil Letson State Urban Forestry Coordinator June 10, 2008
U&CF Program Accomplishments • 46 urban foresters • 16 urban forest management plans • 94 tree boards • 97 tree ordinances • 15,907 “urban forestry” volunteer hours • 1.8 M citizens live in towns and cities that received program assistance -Community Accomplishments Reporting System (2007); USDA Forest Service
New State Forester S&PF “Redesign” Pressures on Alabama’s forest Status quo not working So, Why Change Now?
Initial Concepts • U&CF Program transfers back to AFC
Target Date “When will U&CF program change go into effect?” October 1, 2008
U&CF Role in WUI Grant • Tree removal • Pruning limbs • New tree planting • Plant heath care
Tree Removal • “Maintain trees for fire resistance in the first 30 feet surrounding your house.” Source: Homeowner’s Wildland Fire Risk Assessment and Recommendations (2008); Alabama Forestry Commission
Pruning Limbs • “Properly and safely remove overhanging branches within 15-feet of…structures.” • “Properly and safely prune tall shrubs and mature trees so that lowest limbs are at least 15-feet above ground level.” Source: Homeowner’s Wildland Fire Risk Assessment and Recommendations (2008); Alabama Forestry Commission
New Tree Planting • “Choose fire-smart species” • “Choose safe places to plant” Source: Living With Fires: A Guide for Protecting Homes from Wildfire (2006); Alabama Forestry Commission
Plant Health Care • “Keep plants and trees well pruned, thinned, and maintained.” Source: Living With Fires: A Guide for Protecting Homes from Wildfire (2006); Alabama Forestry Commission