Kansas City’s Department of Parks and Recreation, Forestry Division is responsible for the management of a vast urban forest that provides over $28.2 million in annual benefits. This forest is a valuable municipal asset that appreciates over time and produces a positive return on public funds invested in its care.

Proper management of this asset is fiscally prudent, as it results in safer city streets and parks, increases the quality of life, preserves the longevity and benefits that trees provide, and demonstrates a high degree of responsiveness to the needs of citizens. The City of Kansas City recognizes the value and services provided by its urban forest, along with the need for an integrated approach to its stewardship.

To this end, in 2018 the city partnered with Missouri Department of Conservation to obtain matching funds toward financing the development of an urban forestry master plan. This master plan conveys analysis of existing urban forestry data and establishes a roadmap for the long-term management and improvement of the city’s tree canopy.