Join us for a UCFS Learning Series webinar – sponsored by Bartlett Tree Experts!
When it comes to designing and managing landscapes, we’ve all learned that low-diversity, monoculture landscapes are not sustainable—but why is that? What does it truly mean to diversify a landscape, and how does it lead to healthier, more resilient urban environments?
In this dynamic, research-based webinar, Dr. Chris Riley, Entomologist at Bartlett Tree Experts, will do a deep dive into the science and strategy behind building diverse urban landscapes that can stand up to climate stress, pest outbreaks, and limited resources.
Join us, as we explore the different dimensions of diversity—species, structure, and function—and how they contribute to ecological resilience. We’ll unpack recent research connecting biodiversity with pest suppression and reduced maintenance inputs, and walk through a practical, step-by-step diversification strategy that can increase ecological resilience in your urban landscape.
Whether you’re planting new trees or managing existing landscapes, this session will help you rethink your approach and root your work in the power of ecological diversity.
Learning Objectives
At the end of the webinar, participants will be able to:
Special thank you to Bartlett Tree Experts for their generous sponsorship of this event and continued support of the Urban and Community Forestry Society.
Monday, November 17 from 1:00-4:00pm
To join us, add the tour with your registration!
Join the Urban and Community Forestry Society (UCFS) and the City of Henderson Parks and Recreation for a half-day bus tour exploring how urban forestry practices are evolving to meet the challenges of a hotter, drier climate. This tour is designed for practitioners, planners, and policymakers interested in practical, replicable strategies for building climate-resilient urban landscapes with limited water resources.
Throughout the tour, we’ll explore how cities can proactively adapt to aridification by redesigning public spaces, rethinking irrigation systems, and collaborating across departments and with community partners. Expect a balance of big-picture strategy and actionable detail.
Featured Tour Stops and Highlights:
🌿 Turf Removal & Tree Replacement at Community Parks
See how traditional grass lawns are being replaced with water-smart landscapes by the City of Henderson. At one park site, learn how a communication challenge over tree removals evolved into a model of public engagement, resulting in more—and better—trees planted with long-term resilience in mind.
🦉 Bird Preserve and Partnership with Audubon Society
Explore a vibrant bird preserve developed through a partnership between the City of Henderson and the local Audubon Society. Discover how external collaborations can unlock funding (including grants) and expand habitat while boosting urban canopy goals.
🚧 Street Diet and Green Infrastructure
Visit a transformed urban street where pavement removal made way for tree planting pits and green infrastructure. This site demonstrates how every tree in Henderson is planted with a sustainable irrigation plan—and how all cities can innovate in the right-of-way.
💧 Irrigation Systems & Incentive Programs
Get practical insights on installing and maintaining efficient irrigation systems in challenging settings. Learn how internal and external partnerships (including with the Southern Nevada Water Authority) are creating incentives that drive real change toward water-wise tree planting and landscaping.
What You’ll Take Home:
Special Guests:
We’ll be joined on the tour by guest speakers from the, local Audubon Society, City of Henderson Sustainability Office and the Southern Nevada Water Authority, who will share insider perspectives on interagency collaboration and the mechanics of water incentive programs.
