Cape Coral Named Statewide Leader in Urban Tree Canopy Growth
March 13, 2024
The State Forest Service released its inaugural tree canopy assessment, naming Cape Coral the statewide leader in increased tree cover. Using imagery data from 2013 to 2021, the study showed Cape Coral added 2,868 acres to its urban tree canopy.
Typically, Urban Forestry studies are carried out at the city or county level, but this comprehensive analysis provides insights into the broader environmental and economic impact of trees across the state.
Key findings from the Southwest Region include:
- The average urban tree canopy coverage in Southwest Florida is 32 percent.
- The Southwest region of Florida gained 4,000 acres of tree canopy, the highest among all regions studied.
- Cape Coral leads the state in adding tree cover, with an impressive 2,868 acres gained during the study period.
- Cape Coral showcases the largest potential planting area, covering 32,327 acres.
The increase in Cape Coral’s tree cover is directly related to its economic development, which has allowed our City to grow a vibrant tree canopy that will benefit current and future generations. Establishing and maintaining a sustainable urban tree canopy is vital to the social and economic growth of our city.
Trees play a vital role in our city’s green infrastructure and will become part of our cultural fabric as we continue to grow. The City will continue to seek new grant and reforestation initiatives to have our status as a leader in this field endure.