The District, a fully developed, urban city, still hosts many green spaces, with a variety of vegetation types. There are large natural areas covered by undeveloped forests, avenues lined by majestic willow oaks, neighborhood parks with shade trees and community gardens, wetlands filled with wild rice and wood ducks, grassy athletic fields, and native plant gardens that provide habitat for birds and butterflies in the heart of the city. DOEE is working to restore and improve all of these vegetated areas through a number of programs:
-
Trees In the District
Trees have multiple benefits for achieving our environmental goals including reduced stormwater runoff and carbon footprint, improved air quality, and additional wildlife habitat. DOEE is committed to investing in, maintaining, and expanding the number of healthy native trees across the District. Read more>> -
Urban Forestry Advisory Council (UFAC)
The UFAC was created in the Tree Canopy Protection Amendment Act of 2016. Its purpose is to ensure coordination between the District agencies responsible for achieving the District's tree canopy goal, and partners engaged in programs and activities geared toward achieving those goals. Read More>> -
Habitat Restoration
The Habitat Restoration Program plans, funds, and oversees activities that will protect and restore river, stream and wetland habitats in the District. The intent of these activities is to improve water quality in the District’s waterways and improve the ecological diversity found within its borders. Read More>> -
Pollinator Gardening
District residents can beautify their yards and create valuable habitat for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Even a small backyard garden or balcony with the appropriate native plants can support pollinators that are necessary for healthy and diverse plant life in our city. Read More>> -
Native Plants
Gardening and landscaping with native plants can help improve both the District’s natural and built environment. Native plants are naturally adapted to the local climate, weather, and soil conditions. Read More>>