State of Alaska > Natural Resources > Forestry

Trees need us. Trees in rural forests may live up to 200 years but the same trees need our help to survive in urban areas. The average life span of a downtown tree is only 10 years. However, when planted properly and given adequate care and space to grow trees live longer, look better, and are safer.
Without care, trees may decline and become liabilities but when given the attention and care they deserve, trees are one of the few public assets that increase in value and provide more service as they age.
A successful community forestry program is a good investment of public funds as it provides benefits and savings that far outweigh its cost. An effective program:
If there is no organized effort to care for public trees in your community, you can start the process. Call the Alaska Community Forestry Office for help.