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CARING FOR THE SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT'S TREES:

A 5-7 Year Plan for a Healthier Urban Forest

Discover how the Springfield Park District, in partnership with Trees Forever Illinois, is working to protect, grow, and enhance the trees across 33 parks. 

Trees at the Springfield Park District

Leaders Behind the Project

The Springfield Park District, in partnership with Trees Forever Illinois, is spearheading efforts to care for our community's trees. Staff, volunteers, and tree care experts are all actively involved in planning and ongoing maintenance. 

Project Overview
A comprehensive tree inventory and management plan including:

  • Mapping park trees with GPS.
  • Assessing tree health, species, size, and risk. 
  • Prioritizing maintenance, pruning, and removal.
  • Planning for new plantings and public education programs. 

Location Of Efforts

Across 33 Springfield Park District parks, from playground areas and open spaces to recreation areas.

Timeline for Action

  • Inventory & assessment: starting now
  • Short-term actions (pruning/removal): 1-2 years
  • Long-tern goals (planting, canopy expansion, education): 5-7 years

Purpose & Benefits

  • Understand and protect our urban forest
  • Keep parks safe and enjoyable for residents 
  • Improve environmental benefits: air quality, stormwater management, shade
  • Engage the community in caring for trees

Benefits to the Community

  • Clean Air & Carbon Reduction - Trees filter pollutants and absorb CO2
  • Shade & Cooling - Keeping parks and neighborhoods cooler in the summer
  • Safety & Risk Mitigation - Proactively managing high-risk or declining trees
  • Beautiful Parks & Wildlife Habitat - Enhancing biodiversity and recreational appeal 
  • Community Engagement - Volunteer opportunities, educational workshops, and tree stewardship programs.

A Resilient, Healthy, and Diverse Urban Forest

Over the next 5-7 years, the Springfield Park District aims to maintain and continue to grow a sustainable urban forest. Our plan ensures trees are cared for, new trees are strategically planted, and the benefits of a thriving forest are shared by everyone in the community. 

How We're Doing It (GIS & Mapping)

Smart, Data-Driven Tree Management 

  • Using aerial photography and GIS mapping to locate and track all trees
  • Collecting data on each tree's species, size, health, and risk
  • Assigning unique IDs for easy monitoring and maintenance 
  • Creating digital maps that guide tree care, planting, and removal priorites

Expected Outcomes

  • Complete digital inventory of all park trees
  • Prioritized maintenance, pruning, and removal plan
  • Map-based tool for urban forest management and decision-making
  • Long-term sustainability and canopy growth across Park District parks

Get Involved & Help the Park District Grow Greener

Residents can participate through educational workshops and by learning about proper tree care. Together, we can ensure a safe, healthy, and vibrant urban forest for generations to come.