Welcome to the UAF blog!

It is just three more sleeps till our first documentary film, Forest City, makes its debut screening at the Forest City Film Festival.

I am curious as to how the local community will receive the film.

Like so many places these days, here in the Forest City (aka London, Ontario, Canada), new development application signs are going up faster than ever as the City of London pursues its intensification strategy to build more inwards and up, versus sprawling endlessly out.

Deforestation vs. Urban Development

It’s great news for many, including those working in the development and construction industry such as building suppliers and the valued tradespeople who are essential to every project’s success.

Each of those development signs represents dozens upon dozens of jobs, along with new and/or improved housing, schools, roads, community centres, places to do business, healthcare facilities – and even new or improved recreational spaces such as parks and playgrounds.

But increasingly, as cities intensify to accommodate demand and curb urban sprawl, more trees and forests are at risk of removal.

Balancing Conservation with Development

Balancing conservation with development is not an easy line for municipalities to walk. After all, turning down a planning application may effectively be saying no to a boost to its economic growth, and jobs for individuals and families.

Indeed, the revenue earned from one-time development fees (paid by the developers/builders to the city) and perpetual property taxes enables towns and cities to provide important services for its residents.

On the other hand, now more than ever we need urban forests and trees to cool our cities, filter harmful air pollution, provide precious habitat, and to mitigate and adapt to climate change, a state which many cities are declaring a climate crisis or emergency.

It’s a delicate balance, and few have it all figured out – but many, including the Forest City – are trying hard.

This blog will explore issues and news (especially the good stuff) related to trees and forests in our cities and towns. The vision for this space is to inform, engage and inspire more people to care for and protect our urban woodlands and trees.

If you have a story that you think is worth sharing, please let us know – and don’t forget to subscribe to this blog for more Urban Forest Action.