Urban Forest Master Plan for Newberry, South Carolina
The City of Newberry developed its first-ever Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) to help preserve tree canopy cover as the City’s population and built environment continue to grow. This strategic plan lays the foundation for maintaining and enhancing the urban tree canopy, ensuring that future generations continue to enjoy the benefits of the city’s thriving urban forest. Dudek led the development of the UFMP by analyzing City policies and the current urban forestry program to deliver actionable recommendations that will guide long-term urban forest management.
Project Facts
- City of Newberry, South Carolina
- 8.9 square miles home to 11,000 residents
- City’s first Urban Forest Master Plan
- Funded through the City of Newberry, the South Carolina Forestry Commission, and the US Forest Service
The Challenge
Newberry’s urban forest faces mounting pressures from anticipated growth, infrastructure expansion, increasing temperatures, and flood risk. As roads, sidewalks, and buildings replace green spaces, the City risks losing valuable tree canopy, leading to increased air and water pollution and a diminished quality of life.
Residents also expressed a need for resources, such as tree species recommendations, spacing guidelines, and financial or physical assistance to support participation in growing the urban forest through private tree ownership.
The Solution
Dudek, the City of Newberry, and local community engagement consultant, Community Solutions Consulting, partnered to develop a UFMP, which included a thorough examination of City policies, ordinances, staffing, budget, and current urban forestry practices.
Dudek supported a robust community engagement effort, ensuring that residents’ voices shaped the plan. Through the UFMP, our urban foresters developed accessible educational materials, including a recommended tree species list and tree planting and watering guidelines, which empower residents to plant trees on their properties.
The Impact
The UFMP provides a clear, actionable roadmap for maintaining Newberry’s urban forest. By aligning policy, community input, and best practices, this first-of-its-kind strategic plan ensures that trees will continue to be a vital part of the City’s natural resources.
As a result, the urban forest will be healthier, safer, and more sustainable, benefitting the community and future generations.
What We Did
- Graphic Design and Document Layout
- Outreach and Engagement
- Recommended Tree Species List
- Tree Planting and Watering Guidelines
- Urban Forest Management Planning
Next Project
Temecula Urban Forest Management Plan
The Temecula Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) helps move the City of Temecula toward a more sustainable urban forest. Dudek applied sustainable urban forest management practices and concepts to our analysis to develop a long-term plan for sustainable management and maintenance of the City’s trees.
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