Did you know that a street tree can add an extra $15,000 – $20,000 in value to an adjacent property? That trees reduce road rage and stress? That trees reduce flooding, heat and ozone? That businesses on tree lined streets show 12 percent higher income? Thank you trees!

The Key West Tree Commission was established by the State of Florida in 1971 with the mission of protecting and enhancing the health, growth, and planting of trees in the city. When a tree is approved for removal (usually due to disease, insects or property damage), its value is calculated by its diameter, condition, location and species and that value determines how much tree must be replaced by a new planting within 6 months. Last year the City’s Urban Forester oversaw the replacement of at least 550 trees on public and private lands.

The City is also in charge of maintaining the safety and health of trees in our public parks, natural areas and right of ways. The City estimates that 2,000 trees live in these areas and it’s about to find out exactly how many there are and how many more they can plant.

Through a grant from the Florida Division of Forestry, a professional crew will be in town for the next couple of weeks to GPS and assess the health of each tree under the City’s management. They will rate the health of the tree, looking for pruning needs, termites, sidewalk repair, and many other items that will help the City more proactively manage its trees and public space. The team will also be identifying any empty spaces that a shade tree would be appropriate in.

“I am excited for this comprehensive, professional survey that will help us not only maintain the health of the trees we have, but also provide a list of ready to plant spaces throughout the community.” says the City’s Urban Forester Karen DeMaria. “We’re also asking these professionals for best management practices and policies to grow our canopy.”

“Total tree canopy cover in the City of Key West is 30 percent, with the greatest concentration in Old Town,” says Sustainability Coordinator, Alison Higgins. “Increasing the canopy across the island will give us more shade, more green space, more commerce, more local action on climate change, less stress and higher property values.”

So when you see folks with clipboards and GPS units roaming our city streets, don’t be alarmed. Tell them thank you for helping protect our trees.