What is the Urban Forest?
- All trees located throughout the Town of Wake Forest make up the “Urban Forest”. Trees that are located in the public right-of-way, on public grounds, and within street tree easements are municipal owned trees and are an important component of the Town of Wake Forest’s urban infrastructure. Trees provide a wide variety of social, community, economic and environmental benefits for us all that include such things as climate moderation, better air quality, water conservation, habitat for birds and other wildlife and increased property values. All street trees located on municipally owned property are protected by the Vegetation Ordinance of the Municipal Code. The Town of Wake Forest is responsible for the planting, protection, maintenance and removal of these trees.
What’s a street tree?
- A street tree is any tree that is planted in the public rights-of-way, such as between the sidewalk and the street. In some neighborhoods, street trees are planted in an 8’ street tree easement. These easements are located between the sidewalk and the house. The Town of Wake Forest requires street trees to be planted in all new developments. This requirement helps to ensure that Wake Forest remains a community of tree-lined streets with a unified streetscape that provides visual interest to pedestrians and motorists.
What benefits do street trees provide?
- lower street and sidewalk temperatures
- enhance property values
- provide cool, shady pathways for pedestrians and bicyclists
- provide locations for social interactions between neighbors
- encourage motorists to drive slower
- improve water quality by filtering and retaining stormwater
- help clean our air and reduce excessive noise and glare
- extend the life of pavement and reduce the need for resealing
- present a positive image of the community and help to reduce crime
Who is responsible for street trees?
- The Town of Wake Forest is responsible for the care and maintenance of street trees. However, the Town depends greatly on residents for weeding and watering especially for newly planted trees.
How Do I Report Damaged or Diseased street Trees?
- If a Town street tree is dead, injured, or suffering from pests or disease, please call Evan Keto, Urban Forester, at (919) 435-9565.
How do I take care of a tree?