www.urban-forestry.com 25
One of many rain gardens in downtown Indianapolis.
Of the nine excellent presentations
on a range of topics, two that stood out
for me were Peter MacDonagh and Steve
Shurtz's talks on stormwater management,
which continues to be a critical opportunity
for growing urban tree canopy. It provides
funds for tree planting and increased oppor-
tunity for better design for roots under the
concrete jungle in our business districts. The
integration of trees and stormwater capture
results in significant improvements in water
quality and through bigger trees, better
air quality. Everyone involved in urban and
community forestry needs to stay abreast of
the opportunities for urban forestry related
to stormwater. The Partners Conference
demonstrated that nationwide, increasing
tree canopy is a growing priority in many
communities regardless of political affilia-
tion. Here's hoping that trends continues!
—Steve Harris, City Arborist, Syracuse,
New York
From left to right: Wilmington, Delaware Urban Forest Administrator Herb White,
UMass Ext. Asst. Professor of Urban and Community Forestry Rick Harper,
Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation and Recreation Urban & Community Forester
Julie Coop, and USFS Urban Forestry Program Specialist Phil Rodbell.
Jennifer Pine Smith is horticulturist for the
Metro Landscape Coordination Program,
Metro Nashville Public Works