Valuing Urban Forest: Lessons to Learn from Hurricanes

Abstract

In addition to their more recognized ecosystem service functions, urban forests are valued for the cherished meanings and memories they symbolize. Residents draw emotional strength from the stories, people, and events associated with trees. Disaster and disturbance events that destroy the urban forest therefore threaten and damage residents’ attachment to place, and perhaps even their sense of identity. The symbolic qualities of the urban forest even may motivate community response and resilience to hazards. Implications for planning and maintenance of urban tree canopy are discussed.