Over the last 50 years, Cleveland has lost about half its tree canopy due to development and disease. Experts say our tree coverage should be at least 30 percent; instead we're at 18% and falling. This statistic is worse in east side neighborhoods, like Central, which has only 6.5% tree canopy coverage.
Trees are a critical piece of our community: They make neighborhoods healthier and safer; add economic value to homes and businesses; help meet environmental challenges; and give us all a stronger connection to nature that improves mental health.
What can be done to ensure our City meets its ambitious goal of 30% tree coverage by 2040? Right now, a collaboration of public, private, and community stakeholders have been working to advocate for funding, policy changes, and public awareness of the importance of rebuilding the urban forest.
Panelists:
Samira Malone
Director, Cleveland Tree Coalition
Krystal Sierra
Director of Neighborhood Sustainability, Slavic Village Development
Divya Sridhar
Manager of Climate Resiliency And Sustainability, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress
Moderator·
Rich Cochran
President & Chief Executive Officer, Western Reserve Land Conservancy