Local Urban Forest Resources
Explore the research and resources below.
- Dr. Tedward Erker is a statistician and tree enthusiast. His research combines both interests. For more on his work, check out these resources:
- Dr. Bret Shaw’s work provides insights and recommendations grounded in social science research to empower a range of environmental professionals. His for the local urban forestry community can be found on the website, Forestry Insights.
- Williams Selbig is a research hydrologist with the United States Geological Survey. His work has examined the interactions between urban trees and stormwater runoff quality and quantity. Here are two examples:
- Dr. Carly D. Ziter’s work measured the impact of Madison’s tree canopy cover on urban heat. Learn more:
Helpful Links
City of Madison Urban Forestry Task Force Report: In 2020, the City of Madison adopted a report prepared by the Urban Forestry Task Force. The report and its recommendations provide a comprehensive perspective on the city’s tree-related trends, policies, and operations.
CARPC Urban Tree Canopy Cover Change Maps: Interactive maps of urban tree canopy change developed by the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission illustrate recent trends toward widespread canopy decline. CARPC has also prepared a fascinating map that digitizes “witness” trees inventoried during the 1834 survey of local lands. This historic resource provides a compelling view into our vegetative past: Witness Tree Map.
Dane County Tree Canopy Working Group: The Dane County Tree Canopy Working Group aims to collectively maintain, protect, and expand public and private tree canopies across Dane County.
I-Tree: This software suite has introduced a reliable way of calculating the benefits we receive from our urban forests and includes tools for property owners, municipalities, and property managers.
UW-Madison Plant Pathology: This site includes specific information about the various pests and disease of woody plants in Wisconsin.
Trees Are Good: If the information on our site hasn’t convinced you of the value of trees, this site might.
The Urban Forest Map: An innovative “wiki” style tool that is being used in several cities across the country to develop information about their urban forests.
Dane County Tree Board: A collection of industry professionals that coordinate forestry activities in Dane County.
Urban Tree Management: Private arborist.
Documents
The Tree Owner’s Manual: Produced by the U.S. Forest Service this document provides good information on the care of trees.
The Urban Tree Alliance’s Tree Removal Policy: This outlines the circumstances under which we will remove a tree.
Recommended Landscape Trees: A list of trees suitable to Southern Wisconsin compiled by University of Wisconsin extension agent and Horticulture professor Dr. Laura G. Jull.