Our vision is to create, promote, enrich, preserve and protect the natural beauty, and ecological vitality of our community’s shade trees and urban forest canopy.   As stewards of our community’s natural resources, the Dover Shade Tree Commission is dedicated to nurturing a thriving urban forest that embodies our commitment to environmental stewardship, community well-being, and a more beautiful and resilient future.

We are dedicated to these 5 standards:

🌳 Enhancing Urban Greenery

We strive to create a resilient and sustainable urban canopy that contributes to the health and aesthetic appeal of our community. By strategically planting and nurturing shade trees, we aim to combat urban heat islands, improve air quality, prevent erosion, mitigate flooding and foster a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for all residents.

🌳 Ecological Stewardship

We are committed to fostering a harmonious coexistence between the urban ecosystem and its inhabitants. Through careful selection of tree species, responsible maintenance practices, and collaborative engagement with local stakeholders, we seek to promote biodiversity, support native wildlife, and preserve the delicate balance of nature within our community.

🌳 Educational Empowerment

We believe that an informed community is essential to the success of our mission. We are dedicated to providing educational resources, workshops, and outreach programs that empower residents to become advocates for shade trees and active participants in their care. By nurturing a sense of environmental stewardship, we aim to inspire a new generation of tree enthusiasts and environmental champions.

🌳 Collaborative Partnerships

We recognize that the health and vitality of our urban forest depend on collaborative efforts. We actively engage with government agencies, local businesses, non-profit organizations, and community groups to leverage resources, share expertise, and collectively address the challenges and opportunities associated with urban tree management.

🌳 Long-Term Sustainability

Our commitment extends beyond the present to ensure a vibrant and shaded future for generations to come. Through the establishment of tree planting and maintenance initiatives, data-driven decision-making, and continuous research into best practices, we strive to create a legacy of sustainable shade tree management that enriches our community for years to come.