HRM and Dalhousie University are developing an Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) to ensure a sustainable future for our urban forest.  The Plan will provide a way forward for the stewardship of trees in the urban forest.  We need citizens to take an active role in protecting and enhancing our urban forest for the health of our community, so get involved with the UFMP! 

The Team

HRM staff from Real Property Planning and Transportation and Public Works are working with a team from Dalhousie University’s School for Resource and Environmental Studies (SRES) to develop the Urban Forest Master Plan.  The Dalhousie research team is led by Dr. Peter Duinker, Director of SRES, and includes his graduate research students as well as graduate student interns, Gary Davidson, Justin Hack, and Jen Ross.

What is an urban forest?

HRM’s urban forest includes ALL trees within the urban core.  Street trees, park trees, trees on private and public land all make up our urban forest. Following the destruction of Hurricane Juan, it became clear that the urban forest was a precious resource that must be carefully managed.

Benefits of Trees

Summer Community Engagement Opportunities

Throughout the development of the UFMP, there will be a range of opportunities for the public to get involved. 

If you are interested in learning more about the basics of HRM’s urban forest join us on an Urban Forest Walkabout on August 17th at 7pm in front of the Rowe Building, 6100 University Ave. 

On August 18th we will be holding an Open House from 4-8pm that will include a presentation and Q&A period from 6-7pm in the Rowe building. 

If you are interested in providing more direct input to the UFMP, we will be holding Focus Group sessions on August 25th, and August 26th from 6:30-8pm in the Rowe Building.

For further information or to register for a focus group, please contact the Urban Forest Information Line at 490-2367.  

If you prefer e-mail, please contact us at UFMP@halifax.ca.