The Sociology of Urban Tree Planting

Abstract

Study of the aggressive tree planting program of Oakland, California has provided key insights into the sociology of urban tree plantings (Cole 1979). In many cases sociological factors may be more important than biological factors in determining tree survival and well-being. In recognition of social factors and the need for community involvement, the Oakland Tree Task Force (OTTF) was formed under the leadership of a community group called the Oakland Citizens' Committee for Urban Renewal (OCCUR). The goal of the OTTF was to make tree planting a cooperative venture with the community, stress- ing citizen participation to the greatest degree possible. After eight months when initial funding from CETA and the California Department of Forestry ran out, several OTTF staff members in- corporated to form a second organization called the Oakland Neighborhood Tree Organizing Pro- gram (ON TOP). Currently both groups are still viable and are continuing their tree planting ac- tivities. To follow the pattern and effectiveness of involving the community, the Forest Service sought a sociologist. This report describes some of the insights gained from the first year of study. Need