Updated Position Statement from SAF: "Urban and Community Forestry"
June 10, 2024
SAF’s Board of Directors recently
approved an updated position statement featuring a new title: “Strengthening
Urban and Community Forestry for Multiple Benefits.” Led by SAF’s Committee on
Forest Policy member Dr. Sharon Jean-Philippe—along with her two graduate
students Jaq Payne and Melinda Mount—the position statement highlights the
unique opportunities and challenges associated with the rapidly growing field
of urban and community forestry.
“This newest version builds on
previous versions in recognizing that urban and community forests should
provide critical services related to physical and psychological human health,
air quality, energy consumption, water quality, fire protection and recreation
for all communities regardless of socioeconomic statuses,” said Dr. Sharon
Jean-Philippe. The unique opportunities and challenges of urban and community
forestry are related to the diverse set of stakeholders involved.
In addition to our lead authors,
we’d like to thank the entire Committee on Forest Policy, the Forest Science & Technology Board, the House of Society Delegate members, SAF Working Group members, and SAF’s Board of Directors for their
contributions.
SAF has also developed a
shareable briefer that summarizes the key points of the position statement and
social media graphics to educate decision makers and the public. Members are
welcome to share these resources with their networks.
The position statement will expire in 2028,
unless, after subsequent review, it is further extended by the SAF Board of
Directors.
Visit the policy webpage to explore all of SAF’s National Position Statements.
Are you a Leader looking for a toolkit on this topic? Find the content in Leadership Central.