Tree Canopy
Definition
The layer of leaves, branches, and stems of trees that cover the ground when viewed from above, measured as percentage of land area. Urban tree canopy provides multiple benefits: cooling neighborhoods, managing stormwater, improving air quality, increasing property values, and enhancing mental health. Many cities set a canopy goal for health and environmental benefits.
Louisville Context
Louisville’s tree canopy is distributed very unequally. East End neighborhoods have far more canopy than most West Louisville neighborhoods. I believe Metro Government’s Urban Forestry budget is too small to address that inequality.
Why It Matters
Tree canopy directly affects your quality of life, property values, cooling costs, and health. Neighborhoods with low tree canopy suffer hotter summers, more flooding, worse air quality, and lower property values. Tree canopy inequality is environmental injustice that perpetuates economic disparities.
My Proposal
I will raise Louisville’s Urban Forestry budget to $8 million annually within my $1.13 billion budget, funded by reallocating unnecessary economic development incentives. This funds planting 50,000 trees over 4 years, prioritizing low-canopy neighborhoods, with preference for native species and community engagement in planting locations.