City of Whitewater Comprehensive Plan, 2030
 
Small towns across the United States stand out from the air as oases of trees. Trees were important plantings as communities developed, and trees continue as an important part of attractive city landscapes across the country. Whitewater reaffirmed the importance of trees to the community and the urban environment in its Comprehensive Plan, 2030. Underlining its commitment, Whitewater has a City Forester, advised by its Urban Forestry Commission, to coordinate and support community wide efforts to sustain and develop its urban forests.

 

WHY PRESERVE URBAN FORESTS?


An urban forest comprises all the trees and associated vegetation and ecosystems found in an urban area. Urban forests are, by their v ery nature, characterized by the unique interaction between the natural world and the man made environment…. The city of Whitewater wishes to preserve and enhance its urban forest amenities, recognizing that higher percentages of tree and vegetative cover in urban areas are associated with tremendous benefits to the community. These benefits include the following: 

  • Enhancements to air quality
  • Management of storm water and flooding
  • Reductions in ambient noise levels
  • Improvements in water quality
  • Preservation of wildlife habitat
  • The moderation of ambient temperature
  • Reductions in energy use
  • Contributions to community aesthetics
  • Increases in property values
  • Opportunities for recreation
  • Enhancements in the connections between people with the natural environment
  • Opportunities for education
  • Enhancements in overall human well-being

Source: People and Trees: Assessing the US Urban Forest Resource. David J. Novak, Mary H Noble, Susan M. Sisinni, John F. Dwyer, 2001.Journal of Forestry. 99(3)
City of Whitewater Comprehensive Plan, 2030. Chapter Four: Natural Resources, p.44

Adppted February 2, 2010

 
 
 For detail: Comprehensive Plan 2030, passed February 2, 2010.
                                                                                                                                             
Urban Forestry Committee – Karen Coburn, Chair   473-5453
Last Update: 24th April 2015