Urban Forest Committee

What is the committee’s scope of responsibility?
The scope of responsibility of the committee is to make recommendations on improvements and maintenance plans that have impacts on the campus Urban Forest and designated Heritage Trees. Specific responsibilities include:
1. Provide input on the evaluation of health, cost of damage and/or replacement and maintenance issues of campus trees
2. Make recommendations regarding the overall plan and implementation of a campus-wide tree care plan.
3. Assist with educating the campus community on issues related to Urban Forest management including removal and species selections.
4. Advise on development and use of a Heritage Tree Endowment Fund
5. Provide oversight of the Heritage Tree appraisal method for damage assessment
6. Serve as the advisory board for the Tree Campus USA designation
7. Coordinate with the Lake Raleigh Woods Advisory Panel, City of Raleigh staff, and other governmental and civic groups charged with managing urban trees, as appropriate.

How often does the committee meet?
The committee meets twice a year with special meetings called as needed.

How are committee members appointed?
Faculty, staff, and students are expected to have professional credentials or experience that will contribute to the process. The composition of this committee consists of ex-officio members and members on staggered two-year terms.
• The University Landscape Architect, Designated as Co-Chair of the Committee
• Director, Grounds and Building Services, Designated as Co-Chair of the Committee
• The Director of the J.C. Raulston Arboretum
• The Director of the Environmental First Year Program
• The University Arborist
• The Urban Forestry Administrator for the City of Raleigh
• One faculty member from the College of Design
• One faculty member from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• One faculty member from the College of Natural Resources
• One member of the Student Body
• Three Facilities Division at Large Members
• One member of University Real Estate and Development

How does the university designate its heritage trees?
Heritage Trees are defined as “a landmark tree, or a grove of trees, that has developed historical or aesthetic value because of its form, setting, age, exemplary representation of genus or species, rarity, association with an important even or person, or memorial significance to the university to be preserved for future generations.” Criteria for selection include size, age, location or setting, species, health, aesthetic value, historical significance, rarity to region/campus and whether it’s an outstanding specimen.

Can I sponsor a campus tree?
The university has a Campus Beautification Fund that accepts gifts for the overall management of campus grounds. Give online