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Community Tree Programs in Illinois, U.S.: a Statewide Survey and Assessment

This article reports the combined results of two surveys of Illinois, U.S., communities about the status and needs of their community tree programs. The surveys were intended primarily to help state and federal agencies and private organizations to more effectively target the support they give to Illinois community tree programs. In 1995, we surveyed individuals responsible for tree care activities in small Illinois communities (population less than 25,000), and in 1999 we extended the survey to communities with populations of 25,000 or greater. Local municipal officials, regardless of community size, have strong positive attitudes toward the value of trees to their communities. Communities vary, however, in their resources, problems, and needs relating to their public trees. In particular, small communities often lack key components of an effective tree program and trained personnel for carrying out these programs. In providing assistance for community tree programs, state, federal, and private organizations should keep in mind the distinct needs and opportunities of communities of different sizes.