The City of Morenci is in the process of developing a long-term Urban Forestry Management Plan and is seeking input from residents to help shape the direction of this important initiative.
With funding provided through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Urban and Community Forestry IRA Grant, the project will begin with a comprehensive inventory and health assessment of all trees located in public spaces. Certified Arborists will conduct surveys throughout Morenci, assessing and mapping trees along streets, in parks and cemeteries, within public rights-of-way, and on other City-owned properties. This effort is focused exclusively on public spaces; no information will be collected from private property.
The findings of this inventory will serve as the foundation for the development of a comprehensive 20-year Forestry Management Plan. The plan will guide future tree planting efforts, enhance care for the existing tree canopy, and identify opportunities for new programs to sustain and protect this valuable community resource.
Public input is an important part of this process. The City is inviting residents to share what they value most about Morenci’s trees, their perspectives on current tree management practices, and their ideas for the future. Community feedback will help ensure that the final plan reflects both the needs and the vision of Morenci’s residents.
To support this dialogue, the City will host a Community Open House with its forestry consultant and Certified Arborist on Wednesday, September 10, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Stair District Library. The open house will be informal in nature, without a formal presentation, allowing residents to stop by at their convenience to ask questions, review materials, and provide input.
The City of Morenci is grateful for the community’s interest and participation in this effort and looks forward to working together to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of Morenci’s urban forest.