Annapolis, MD Urban Tree Canopy Assessment

Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is nestled along the Severn River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis is renowned for its waterfront charm, maritime heritage, and well-preserved colonial architecture and mature canopy. Recognized as a Tree City USA member for 32 years, Annapolis has implemented ordinances and community programs aimed at protecting mature trees and expanding canopy coverage.

Driven by a tree canopy goal of reaching 50% by 2050, a comprehensive tree canopy assessment was conducted in 2024 to enhance understanding of the city’s canopy infrastructure. This assessment examined the urban tree canopy (UTC), its changes over time, potential new planting locations (Possible Planting Areas – PPA), and areas where planting is not feasible. The outcomes provide a detailed overview of the current state of Annapolis’ urban forest and its future possibilities, which can be explored through Annapolis’ Interactive Tree Canopy Map.

Using the latest aerial imagery from 2023 provided by the USDA’s National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP), this study provides a near current view of land cover throughout Annapolis. Machine learning techniques were employed to create an extensive land cover dataset, facilitating the tracking of tree coverage changes over time. These findings should guide strategies to protect and expand the urban forest, ensuring enjoyable spaces for all and helping the city refine and establish new canopy goals and management practices.