Forest Management Framework

More about our vision for urban forests

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  We have significant forested natural areas.

  NYC is over 40% green—including landscaped parkland, private yards, cemeteries, and campuses, in addition to natural areas. The forested natural areas under N...

  NYC is over 40% green—including landscaped parkland, private yards, cemeteries, and campuses, in addition to natural areas. The forested natural areas under NYC Parks’ jurisdiction represent an area eight times as large as Central Park. These are not just open spaces but gateways to nature and all its history, complexity, and wonder.

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  These spaces have never been more important.

  Eighty percent of Americans live in urban areas, and communities are increasingly disconnected from the natural world. Spending time in nature provides signific...

  Eighty percent of Americans live in urban areas, and communities are increasingly disconnected from the natural world. Spending time in nature provides significant physical and mental health benefits and has been shown to decrease crime and increase community cohesion. Safe access is the first step in realizing the benefits that nature provides.

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  Urban forests contribute to a healthy environment.

  Trees are vital for mitigating urban heat island effects and can lower air temperatures by up to nine degrees Fahrenheit. NYC’s forested natural areas also na...

  Trees are vital for mitigating urban heat island effects and can lower air temperatures by up to nine degrees Fahrenheit. NYC’s forested natural areas also naturally capture millions of gallons of stormwater each year and filter pollutants from that water. These forests are habitat for hundreds of species of resident birds and pollinators and occupy a crucial location on the migratory paths of hundreds of additional species.

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  New data enables better leadership.

  A decade ago, the NAC conducted the first standardized assessment of 10,000 acres of forests and wetlands in 53 parks in NYC. These forests are incredibly diver...

  A decade ago, the NAC conducted the first standardized assessment of 10,000 acres of forests and wetlands in 53 parks in NYC. These forests are incredibly diverse and are under threat from longstanding urban challenges. The framework articulates management practices that directly address these threats and will help restore and sustain healthy forests and secure their benefits for the future.

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