invasive plant species in urban areas. Most of my
research with Dr. Clarke looks into tree giveaways and
other planting initiatives in Florida, especially those for
underserved populations. How successful have the give-
aways been? Were the trees planted in an appropriate
spot? Did the trees survive transplanting? Are they being
maintained? I conducted surveys and visited a sample
of residents—and I found that a lot of the giveaway
trees didn't make it. My findings might step on some
toes but in the long run it's important for all of us to
know, especially as the IRA funding rolls out, whether
our efforts are effective. I looked at how giveaways can
work better—like with education and on-site visits—and
alternatives to giveaways, like community tree plant-
ings, or in conjunction with workforce development.
Related to my research, I've been a co-author
with Mysha Clark and others on two publications:
"Factors That Enhance or Hinder Social Cohesion in
Urban Greenspaces: A Literature Review," in Urban
Forestry & Urban Greening and "Why Can't We All
Just Get Along? Conflict and Collaboration in Urban
Forest Management" in Arboriculture & Urban
Forestry. I've talked with UCFS Director Leslie Berckes
about ways I can share my findings with UCFS.
Dr. Clarke encouraged me to start looking for jobs at the
same time I'm writing my dissertation. I think right now
is the perfect time, with all the Inflation Reduction Act
funding for tree equity and community engagement,
for me to find a job that combines my interests in these
things. I like talking with people and collaboration. I'm
very interested in environmental justice, social cohesion,
and workforce development. Ideally I'd like to be in a
position that has me in the field about half the time.
To people gearing up to study urban forestry, my advice
is to take all opportunities to try things, because even
what you don't like shapes what you want to do in the
future. My internships that weren't forestry related
allowed me to meet people of different cultures and
live in interesting places. I feel like my path has been
just right. I look forward to serving as a mentor to
others, maybe through the UCFS Mentoring Program.
Though young myself, I feel I have a lot to share.
Lillian Dinkins with a coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens).
28 CityTREES
