What?

Through the City of Central Point – Urban and Community Forestry Planning and Program Development Grant, OUR Community Forestry is helping the City strengthen its urban forest and plan for the future. This work includes:

• Supporting the City with staffing, coordination, and technical expertise.
• Forming a Community Forestry Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to guide priorities.
• Creating and distributing a bilingual community survey to better understand residents’ needs and perspectives.
• Hosting community events, including a tree planting during Arbor Month and bilingual workshops to engage and educate residents.
• Partnering with schools to bring urban forestry curriculum into classrooms and inspire the next generation.
• Reviewing City policies and helping outline a long-term Urban Forest Plan.

Why It Matters

Urban and community forests are essential for healthy, thriving cities. By expanding canopy coverage and improving tree care, Central Point will:

• Provide cleaner air and shade for residents.
• Improve stormwater management and reduce urban heat.
• Strengthen climate resilience and ecosystem services.
• Ensure more equitable access to the benefits of trees, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
• Foster stronger community connections through education, planting, and stewardship.

This project will help Central Point build the foundation for a greener, healthier, and more resilient future.

Who to Thank

Funds are provided by the Oregon Department of Forestry's Urban and Community Forestry Program from the 2024 Growing Equity in Oregon’s Urban and Community Forests Project. The Federal Assistance Listing Number is 10.727, and the Federal Program is named the IRA Urban & Community Forestry Program. The federal award is through the USDA Forest Service.