Tree Canopy Outcome:Factors Influencing Progress

Several factors could impact our ability to expand urban tree canopy across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. These factors have directly informed the management actions our partners will take to achieve the Tree Canopy outcome.

Policies

  • State and local policies and regulations.
  • Priorities of jurisdictional stormwater programs influenced by the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load.

Funding

  • State and local funding.
  • Private sector funding.
  • Other sources of funding.

Capacity and Knowledge

  • Local governments’ capacity and knowledge.
  • Capacity and knowledge of nonprofit organizations, partner groups and volunteers.
  • Private sector capacity and knowledge.

Outreach and Education

  • Local, state or watershed-wide outreach campaigns.

Drivers of Canopy Loss

  • Development.
  • Utility-related removals.
  • Homeowner/property owner removals.
  • Deer browse.
  • Pests or disease (e.g., Emerald Ash Borer).
  • Storms.
  • Mortality related to poor maintenance or site conditions.
  • Mortality related to the natural aging of tree populations.