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Growing the Next Generation of Urban Forestry Leaders

October 29 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CDT

Join us for the UCFS Learning Series – generously supported by Bartlett Tree Experts!

Tomorrow’s urban forests depend on the seeds we plant today—and the passion we inspire in our next generations. This webinar showcase creative, proven programs that connect youth with the knowledge and skills needed to care for and champion our urban canopy.

Discover how a Youth Forest Council in Austin, Texas is driving tree planting in the neighborhoods that need it most, how TreeQuest in Boise, Idaho is turning students into tree inventory champions, and how a school-based nursery in Union County, North Carolina is growing shade—and future leaders.

From big-picture planning to growing and planting trees alongside students, these innovative initiatives will highlight how urban forest education, public service, and workforce development can build a more inclusive, skilled, and resilient workforce and remove barriers to careers in urban forestry. By opening pathways to leadership and career opportunities, these programs not only strengthen communities but also ensure the long-term care of our urban forests.

Packed with real-world examples and actionable strategies from a panel of speakers with first-hand experience, this session will spark fresh ideas to educate, engage, and equip youth to lead the way in building greener, healthier communities—our future urban forests begin with the seeds we plant today.

ISA CEUs applied for and pending.

Register today!

Details

Date:
October 29
Time:
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CDT

2025 UCFS Pre-Conference Tour

Climate Resilience Through Smarter Landscapes

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:

  • Practical tips for managing urban forests with less water
  • Strategies for working across departments and building collaborative teams
  • Lessons from real-world partnerships with nonprofits, utilities, and the public
  • Inspiration to rethink green infrastructure in your community

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.