City invites residents to explore tree canopy maps, share feedback and plant trees

Richmond, VA — The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) invites residents to explore the city's urban forest, learn about the latest tree canopy findings and participate in community events leading up to Richmond's annual Arbor Day celebration on Saturday, November 7.  

As development of the Richmond Tree Plan, the city's first-ever Urban Forest Master Plan, continues, DPW's Urban Forestry Division and its partners are visiting neighborhoods across Richmond this fall to share results from a new Tree Canopy Assessment and gather community feedback. 

The assessment provides an updated look at Richmond's tree canopy, helping identify opportunities to protect existing trees, expand tree coverage and guide future investments in the city's urban forest. 

Residents are encouraged to stop by an upcoming community pop-up to explore the latest tree canopy maps, learn how the findings will inform the Richmond Tree Plan and share their experiences and priorities for Richmond's trees. 

Upcoming Community Engagement Events: 

RVA BIG Market 

Saturday, October 24 | 8 a.m. – noon 

Bryan Park, 4308 Hermitage Road 

In partnership with Grow RVA.   

South of the James Farmers Market 

Sunday, October 25 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.   
Forest Hill Park, 4021 Forest Hill Avenue 

In partnership with Grow RVA.   

City of Richmond Trunk or Treat  

Thursday, October 29 | 5 – 8 p.m. 

Main Street Station, North Plaza and West Parking Lot 

1500 E. Main Street 

In partnership with the Richmond Department of Transportation.  

Richmond Tree Plan Pop-Up and Community Tree Care Day 

Thursday, November 5 | 9 a.m. – noon 

Blackwell Park (Charlie Sydnor Playground) 

1400 Maury Street 

Join the Richmond Tree Plan team, Richmond Parks and Recreation, and the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay for a community tree care event. Residents can learn about the Tree Canopy Assessment, share feedback and participate in volunteer tree care activities. 

Pre-registration is required for volunteer participation, register here. 

Arbor Day Ceremony and Community Tree Planting  

Saturday, November 7 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Libby Hill Park | 2801 E. Franklin Street 

The City of Richmond will celebrate Arbor Day with a ceremonial tree planting and community volunteer event at Libby Hill Park. 

Hosted in partnership with DPW's Urban Forestry Division, Richmond Parks and Recreation, and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the event brings together residents, volunteers and community partners to celebrate the importance of trees and support a healthier, greener Richmond. 

Richmond has a long-standing history of recognition as a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation, reflecting the city's continued commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship. 

Residents interested in participating in the volunteer planting portion of the event must register in advance.

The Richmond Tree Plan is supported by a $6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service the largest urban forestry grant awarded in Virginia. The investment supports the city's efforts to develop a comprehensive approach to tree preservation, planting, maintenance and community engagement. 

Led by DPW's Urban Forestry Division, the planning effort brings together city departments, community stakeholders and residents to develop strategies that support a healthy, resilient and equitable urban forest for generations to come. 

Residents can learn more about Richmond's Tree Plan and urban forestry initiatives by visiting Richmond Tree Plan | Richmond.

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Funding for this project is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.   
 

The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) provides essential infrastructure and public services that support the safety, accessibility and quality of life of Richmond residents. Services include street and sidewalk maintenance, solid waste collection, recycling, urban forestry, parking enforcement and right-of-way management. For more information, visit rva.gov/public-works or call 3-1-1.