Richmond Tree Plan

The City of Richmond is working with Weston & Sampson to create its first ever Urban Forest Master Plan - a long-term strategy to grow, care for, and protect trees across the city.

The Tree plan is a roadmap for residents, city leaders, and community partners to work together as stewards of Richmond's urban forest.  It will help us:

• Understand the city's current urban tree canopy coverage
• Identify areas where more trees are needed
• Develop strategies for planting and protection
• Promote tree equity so all communities benefit
• Educate and engage residents in caring for trees

Richmond's Department of Public Works Urban Forestry Division is leading the plan, with support from the Office of Sustainability, the Department of Parks and Recreation, Groundwork RVA, Happily Natural, Southside ReLeaf, Virginia Interfaith Power and Light, and other community partners.

Trees are one of the most powerful tools - they clean the air, provide shade, reduce flooding, provide habitat for wildlife, and bring beauty and vibrancy to our streets and parks.

By investing in our urban forest now, we're building a stronger, cooler and more connected city for generations to come.

Origin of the Tree Plan

This plan is a key part of RVAgreen 2050 and supports goals from Richmond 300 and other city initiatives focused on climate action, equity, and sustainable growth. It will guide how we plant, protect, and care for trees across Richmond, especially in neighborhoods most affected by heat, flooding, and health disparities.

Richmond has taken meaningful steps to grow its urban forest. For 33 consecutive years, the city has earned the Tree City USA designation from the National Arbor Day Foundation. Additionally, between 2013 and 2015, a public tree inventory was completed for all right-of-way trees. This plan will build on those efforts and provide an updated canopy assessment. 

The Richmond Tree Plan is largely being funded by a $6 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service for deep investments in urban forestry efforts. The city’s $6 million investment represents the largest award in the State of Virginia.