Date of Award
5-2017
Degree Type
Research Paper
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Community Development and Planning (CDP)
Department
International Development, Community and Environment
Chief Instructor
Deborah Martin
Second Reader
Kathryn Madden
Keywords
Worcester, Asian Longhorned Beetle, tree values, tree planting program, sustainable urban forest
Abstract
Urban tree planting initiatives have become common across cities in the United States. In order to advocate for sustainable urban forests, managers of urban planting initiatives must adopt a strong community framework, which includes community values in reforestation efforts. Clark University researchers conducted interviews and surveys with residents in six central Massachusetts cities and towns to assess why residents value urban trees and to characterize public response to reforestation efforts. Results indicate residents had positive experiences with tree planting programs, are most likely to value urban trees for aesthetic reasons, and commonly associate change in neighborhood character with Asian Longhorned Beetle related tree cutting. These findings can be used to inform future policy decisions and to increase participation in tree planting programs by appealing to characteristics residents value in urban trees.
Recommended Citation
Goldman, Eli, "Seeing Community Through the Trees: Characterizing Resident Response to Urban-Tree Planting Initiatives" (2017). International Development, Community and Environment (IDCE). 121.
https://commons.clarku.edu/idce_masters_papers/121
Worcester
Yes
Included in
Civic and Community Engagement Commons, Community-Based Research Commons, Environmental Studies Commons, Forest Management Commons, Nature and Society Relations Commons, Urban Studies and Planning Commons