Cal Poly to lead California’s urban forestry strategy
Project aims to increase canopy cover by 10% by 2035 to combat climate change
– Cal Poly has been awarded a contract to lead the development of California’s new urban forestry strategic plan, an initiative in collaboration with Cal Fire. The project, guided by Assembly Bill 2251, aims to increase canopy cover by 10% by 2035 to combat climate change, promote healthier communities, and improve access to green spaces.
“This strategic plan gives Cal Poly students a direct path to using their data to solve real-world problems,” said Jenn Yost, a biological sciences professor and project lead. “We have some of the best urban forestry datasets to create this plan.”
California faces significant challenges from climate change, particularly in disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by extreme heat and limited access to shade. The effort to expand canopy cover is intended to reduce temperatures, improve air quality, and enhance ecosystem services such as carbon capture and stormwater management.
Cal Poly’s contribution is rooted in the work of its Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute, which provides resources and tools for urban forestry management across the state. The institute’s SelecTree database, used by more than 250,000 people each month, supports the selection and management of urban trees.
“California is the most urbanized state in the country, yet it has the lowest per capita canopy cover,” said Matt Ritter, a biological sciences professor and director of the Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute. “This initiative is a critical step toward reversing that trend.”
Using neural networks powered by over 8 million data points, the institute has identified 40 million trees across California. The data will inform policies and strategies to expand canopy cover, with a focus on underserved areas.
The strategic plan will include:
- Measuring statewide canopy coverage to identify areas for improvement.
- Prioritizing biodiversity to enhance resilience against disease and environmental stressors.
- Setting goals and strategies for expanding tree canopy in disadvantaged communities.
- Engaging stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and impact.
“At its core, the initiative shows the groundbreaking power of data and collaboration,” said Jonathan Ventura, a computer science professor who contributed to the project’s mapping efforts. “It’s not just about finding the right algorithm; it’s what the data tells us and why it matters.”
The yearlong effort, led by Yost, Ritter, and their team, will involve collaboration with tribal nations, nonprofits, local governments, and tree professionals. Stakeholder input will also be sought to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive plan.
The completed plan, scheduled for submission to the state legislature by June 2025, will provide a roadmap for expanding California’s canopy cover and fostering resilient communities.
For more information or to provide feedback, contact Yost at [email protected].
About the Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute
The Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute, part of Cal Poly’s Bailey College of Science and Mathematics, focuses on managing California’s urban forests. The institute provides tools, research, and expertise to promote sustainable urban forestry practices. Visit ufeicalpoly.edu.
