The League provided matching grant funds for this project. This handbook is part of a two-year program aimed at calling local officials' attention to the benefits of trees in cities and villages. Trees are our constant reminder that nature still exists in this day of urbanization. Trees not only add color and beauty to our environment, particularly here in Michigan with our fall foliage, but they have other positive effects on our surroundings. Trees help to alter the climate by providing shade, they serve as visual and noise buffers and they reduce air pollution.
Trees improve our psychological well-being and enhance our quality of life.
Educational sessions, subsidized by the grant funds, will be held through September, 1993. The sessions are designed to encourage local officials to develop and enact tree ordinances to enhance the environment in their communities. Thanks also go to Dr. Jim Kielboso of the MSU forestry program and Cara Boucher, urban and community forester, Forest Management Division, Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Jeannette Westhead of the League's Education staff has edited this book for publication. Your comments about this program and ideas on ways the League can help you to develop a successful urban forestry program in your city are welcomed.