Urban Tree Canopy Assessment: Project Summary

The urban forest in Colorado Springs is a valuable asset that provides residents and visitors with many ecological, environmental, and community benefits. This assessment analyzed the City’s urban tree canopy (UTC), possible planting area (PPA), and change in UTC over a 20-year period, and also included a public survey and field inventory component. The results provide baseline data to develop strategies to protect trees and expand canopy coverage in our urban and natural areas in Colorado Springs during planning and development. The maps and project report help to concentrate efforts in areas where needs are greatest, tree planting space is available, and benefits can be realized.