American Forests: Urban Ecosystem Analysis

American Forests is assessing urban forests across the country. We have developed a process called Urban Ecosystem Analysis (UEA) to map the structure of a land area. The UEA process involves a technical analysis of satellite data, the application of computer software called Geographic Information Systems of which includes a software application we developed called CITYgreen, a through knowledge of urban ecology and the ability to apply the science and engineering principals developed by experts to the Urban Ecosystem Analysis process.

The UEA process can be divided into Regional Ecosystem Analyses a technique that uses Landsat Satellite images, allowing the comparison of landcover over time, and Green Layer Analysis which uses data from high resolution satellites to detail a tree canopy layer accurately enough to be used on a daily basis by local government to make management decisions

Our REAs have been conducted for 10 years and have documented a disturbing trend- urban areas are losing their trees at an alarming rate while impervious land covers like roads, have been increasing rapidly. Many city leaders don't realize this tree loss is costing them billions of dollars in ecological services like stormwater management.

Fortunately, the tools we are using to identify the problem also offer hope of solutions. When city managers measure the extent and value of their urban forests, they've taken the first important step. Communities can use this information to examine development and zoning requirements. Planners and builders can test design scenarios and measure the potential impact on trees, open space, the environment and ultimately their communities livability.