Update the citywide urban tree canopy assessment every ten years and maintain a current street tree inventory. At least 40% citywide canopy coverage and 15% canopy coverage in downtown.
Accelerate tree replacement programming in neighborhoods that will be most impacted by urban heat island effect and Emerald Ash Borer
Prioritize tree planting in areas of concentrated poverty and low tree canopy coverage
Build relationships and trust with community members; support early maintenance and care of trees
Engage faith, civic, and citizen groups to partner to organize volunteer opportunities to plant public and private trees
Consider rooftop solar access in commercial and industrial districts when determining which types of trees to plant
Promote the proactive replacement of declining ash trees with a diverse mix of species to build urban forest resiliency and maintain canopy cover
Use vegetative cover to help stabilize slopes, reduce slope failure, and minimize waterbody sedimentation
Expand and connect green spaces so they are welcoming and within walking distance of all residents, especially in underserved communities where there are greater proportions of impervious surfaces
Improve the ecological functionality of and resiliency of parks and open space through green infrastructure, stormwater management, and plant diversity and pollinator-friendly habitat
Foster environmental stewardship, community health, and cultural and ecological learnings along the Mississippi River through the implementation of the Great River Passage Initiative
Encourage the use of low-impact landscaping to reduce consumption of water and chemicals in yard and lawn, improve permeability to reduce stormwater runoff, and sequester more carbon in soil
Encourage the use of Minimal Impact Design Standards (MIDs) for new development
Ensure availability of high quality compost from organics collection to businesses and residents to help improve soil quality
Ensure water treatment and distribution infrastructure is resilient to potential hazards
Support regional efforts to address groundwater usage and recharge
Collaborate with partner agencies on water quality improvement efforts, including capital projects and programming
Implement additional strategies included in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan to improve the resilience of natural infrastructure through an equity lens