Urban and Community Forestry in Puerto Rico

Purpose
The purpose of this plan is to assess current urban forest resources for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico land areas, provide direction for future policy and program development based on the protection and restoration of the urban ecosystem by promoting the involvement of the people through effective organizations to ensure the enjoyment of the multiple benefits of the urban forest.

Mission
That trough the planning and practice of management measures which enhance, protect, and restore the urban ecosystem, and through the collaborative efforts of the public and private sector organizations. The Urban and Community Forestry Program will be an organized, accountable, and self-sustaining effort. In addition, the Urban and Community Council will act as the advisory entity to the State Forester for urban forestry issues, as a coalition grouping all the government agencies and tree action organizations to facilitate a better quality of life for this and future generations of inhabitants of Puerto Rico.

Vision
That all communities throughout Puerto Rico will be knowledgeable about, appreciate, and actively manage their urban forest resources integrating environmental, economic, and social factors resulting in enhancement of public health, safety, and well being.

Urban Forest Issues and Plans of Action
The positive propaganda given to urban forestry in Puerto Rico has created an adequate climate for the establishment and development of tree planting and management programs. Many environmental groups have been created to deal with environmental issues and are committed to support urban forestry programs.

The priority issues in Puerto Rico Urban and Community Forestry Program are:

1. There is a need for increased collaborative support for the Urban and Communitry Forestry Programs from the state, federal, and municipal government, based on planning, planting, wise resource management, uniformity in the programs and regulations, and the protection of the urban ecosystem.
   Outcome
   A healthy urban environment based on strong urban forestry programs where the planning, planting, wise resource management provide and contribute to the protection and enhancement of the urban ecosystem, and expand tree canopy cover throughout communities and cities.
2. There is a need to increase public awareness of the multiple benefits of the urban forest as a part of the urban ecosystem, the identification and protection of the ecological sensitive areas, and the restoration of deteriorated ecosystems.
   Outcome
   Costs and benefits associated with a healthy urban forest ecosystem and a wise management are understood and implemented.
3. There is a need to increase the economic resources available for urban forestry in Puerto Rico with the involvment of the private sector and by increasing the government allocations.
   Outcome
   The budget allocated for the Urban and Community Forestry efforts has the economic input from the private sector, legislative assignations, municipal, and community funding.

Broad Outcome
That cities and communities will wisely manage the urban forest, improve services and maximize benefits provided by trees and related natural resources to enhance quality of life for the people.