Trees and other woody plants on streets, in parks, in natural areas and on private property all make up the urban forest. The urban forest not only makes our City beautiful but contributes to the health of citizens, has economic, recreational and environmental benefits.
Charlottetown has a rich history related to its urban forest. Many of the trees we still see today date back to the 1800’s and were planted by school children on Arbor Day. Some of which are elm trees that are amongst the very largest trees in the City - majestic elms that grace our streets and parks. The City still celebrates Arbor Day every year by inviting schools to bring their students out to plant trees in our City parks.
Charlottetown’s has over 11,000 street and park trees as well as many trees in woodlands, hedgerows and riparian zones. This urban forest provides habitat for wildlife; reduces storm water runoff and erosion; cleans our water and air; shelters us from cold in the winter and the sun in the summer; contributes to our sense of well-being and makes our city beautiful.
Our trees are one of the city’s most valuable infrastructures, making the care and maintenance of the urban forest vitally important. Maintenance activities are guided by the City’s street tree inventory. The tree management program includes a strategic tree planting program; monitoring and management of Dutch elm disease, emerald ash borer and other forest pests; a scheduled pruning program and a hazardous tree removal program.
The City continues to work on having a healthy and beautiful urban forest that benefits all who live in and enjoy Charlottetown.