Research
In order to further understand the importance of trees and how our daily interaction with them impact our Jersey City environment, it is important to take advantage of the resources available for the population to learn about the challenges facing our tree canopy and at the same time develop creative solutions to these challenges.
Please find below some information that residents can utilize to learn about our Jersey City’s tree canopy and New Jersey’s Urban and Community Forestry.
Jersey City Tree Canopy Assessment: A Report on Current Tree Canopy and Strategies for the Future
This report presents the results of a shade tree study commissioned by the Jersey City Environmental Commission (JCEC). It includes a brief discussion of the city’s current tree management challenges, tree benefits, and recommended strategies to realize the full potential of our urban shade trees.As an older and very dense northeastern city, Jersey City faces many challenges in caring for its urban trees. However, better care for the city’s trees and an expanded tree canopy will help the city become cleaner, more vibrant, more attractive and more livable. The health, well-being and economic condition of city residents are tied to the green of their environment. The city’s trees provide many benefits for shade, stormwater management, better air quality, reduced utility bills, enhanced safety, natural beauty, vibrant residential and business districts, and mental and physical health. But, as a living system, the city’s tree canopy needs good care, management, and replacement over time.
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
On America’s first official “Earth Day” — April 22, 1970, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection was born. New Jersey became the third state in the country to consolidate its past programs into a unified major agency to administer aggressive environmental protection and conservation efforts. Former Governor William T. Cahill appointed Richard J. Sullivan as the first commissioner. Since that day, NJDEP began a role to manage natural resources and solve pollution problems. In what started with about 1,400 employees in five divisions, NJDEP now has a staff of approximately 2,900 and is a leader in the country for its pollution prevention efforts and innovative environmental management strategies.