Accept the 2000-2020 Tree Canopy Monitoring report

REPORT TO COUNCIL DATE: March 9, 2022 TO: City Council FROM: Jenn Cairo, City Forester SUBJECT: Accept the 2000-2020 Tree Canopy Monitoring Report (Report) Please accept the attached City of Portland 2000-2020 Tree Canopy Monitoring report. This report is updated every five years to provide accurate assessments of Portland’s urban forest. The City of Portland has an established goal of 33.3% canopy coverage while analyses have demonstrated there is adequate space available in the city to reach 52% coverage. For the first time in nearly fifty years, the City of Portland experienced a decline in the percentage of the city covered by tree canopy. From 2015 to 2020, coverage declined from 30.7% to 29.8%. This is the equivalent of losing the total canopy provided by Mt. Tabor Park each year over that five year period. Urban trees are essential for the environmental and human health of the Portland community. Trees mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing the urban heat island effect, removing air pollution, and sequestering carbon. Improving the environment by increasing canopy cover also leads to healthier communities, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses and improving air quality. Improved environmental health leads to better mental and physical health outcomes for all Portlanders. The decline in canopy is cause for concern and action to ensure Portland’s storied trees continue to provide essential environmental and public health benefits for generations. Sincerely, Jenn Cairo City Forester