This project was designed to advance the use of benefit and cost-modeling results in planning that directs tree care and planting activities. To meet the goal of advancing benefit- and cost-based planning, a guidebook for U.S. communities has been developed. The guidebook is based in part upon the urban forest planning efforts of a single community. Fort Worth was selected to demonstrate benefit- and cost-based planning because it faces challenges common to U.S. cities and has a range of urban forestry participants. A local steering committee guided the development of an urban forest plan that gives recommendations for achieving long and short-term urban forestry goals. The guidebook then draws on insights gleaned through this process, as well as recent research and accepted planning practices to make recommendations for implementing benefit- and cost-based planning. Specifically, the guidebook reviews public and private tree inventories, benefit and cost analysis, and the need for community input. The guidebook is made available to communities through an internet web page. On the recommendation of the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council, the USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program awarded a $135,598 grant toward the $275,200 project. For further information, contact R. J. Laverne, The Davey Resource Group, 1500 Mantua Street. Kent, OH 44240-5193 Phone: (330) 673-5685, ext. 49. E-mail: rjlaverne@davey.com. Davey Resource Group's web site can be found at http://www.davey.com.

1994 Costs and Benefits of Urban Forests Project