FAQs

A UFMP is a planning document that identifies the visions, goals, and guiding principles for managing a municipality’s urban forest over mid- to long-term planning horizons. This document serves as a roadmap for municipalities to enable strategic planning and resource allocation for enhancing the resilience and health of trees, mitigating climate change, and providing various ecosystem services through urban forestry and best practices. UFMPs also offer valuable insights into the condition of the City’s urban forest and provide guidance and technical advice for implementation.  

The phrases “urban forest” and “urban tree canopy” refer to all the trees growing within an urban area, such as in parks and greenways, along streets, and on other public and private properties. Similar to a typical forest ecosystem, an urban forest has communities living within it, which rely on and impact its health and benefits. People and the built environment, such as buildings and streets, are just a few examples of communities and factors within an urban forest.

For this project, these terms refer to the trees and communities within the City of Fairfax. The UFMP will primarily focus on trees within public spaces and trees that are managed by the City, but recommendations for trees on private property may also be identified. Engagement will be targeted towards residents and organizations within the city, but other communities, such as George Mason University and Fairfax County residents, are invited to participate as welcomed visitors and stewards of the city's urban forest. 

Cities across the country are preparing UFMPs to proactively manage their urban tree canopy and address challenges such as invasive species and climate change. Three examples along the east coast are linked below.  

City of Wilmington, NC Urban Forestry Master Plan

City of Pittsburgh, PA Urban Forest Master Plan

City of Worcester, MA Urban Forest Master Plan (Draft)

Public engagement is an important part of developing the UFMP for the City of Fairfax. This webpage will serve as the project hub. Events such as tabling, public meetings, and a survey will be conducted over the next 18 months. The events will be formatted to maximize the public’s ability to be involved. Subscribe to this page and check back for more information about event schedules and ways to participate.

What is my role? 

You are a local expert! By living in the City, you have daily opportunities to observe your neighborhood and the community’s urban forest. Your input is critical to ensure the UFMP responds to the needs of both the City and its residents.

At Public Meeting #2, we want to hear about your experience with challenges, opportunities, and community involvement related to Fairfax’s urban forest. Attendees will participate in facilitated discussions with other residents and interactive mapping and voting activities. Input from the outreach activities will shape the UFMP’s recommendations and make it a responsive and actionable plan. We hope to see you there!