This assessment used the city’s current data on inventory, tree canopy, and past studies and plans, along with feedback from interviews and meetings with organizations, the general public and city staff to assess the existing urban forest.
SUM M A RY O F A S S E S S ME NT Twenty-eight indicators of a sustainable urban forest were evaluated. After rigorous analysis and stakeholder input process, it was found that Syracuse rated Moderate in 46% of them (13 indicators), Low for 39% (11 indicators), and Good for 15% (4 indicators), as shown in Table 2. A summary of the ratings is on the following page, with a more detailed look at each category found in Appendix B.
Table 2: Indicators of a Sustainable Urban Forest in Syracuse
Assessed Performance Level Low
Mod.
Good
Urban Tree Canopy Equitable Distribution Size/Age Distribution
The Trees
Condition of Public Trees - Streets, Parks Condition of Public Trees - Natural Areas Trees on Private Property Species Diversity Suitability Neighborhood Action Large Private & Institutional Landholder Involvement Green Industry Involvement
The Players
City Department/Agency Cooperation Funder Engagement Utility Engagement Developer Engagement Public Awareness Regional Collaboration Tree Inventory Canopy Assessment Management Plan Risk Management Program
Maintenance of Publicly-Owned Trees (ROWs) The Mgmt Planting Program Approach Tree Protection Policy City Staffing and Equipment Funding Disaster Preparedness & Response Communications
D AV E Y R E S O U R C E G R O U P | E N V I R O N M E N TA L C O N S U LT I N G
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