Guiding principles of trees for Wilmington

 ■   Recognize community involvement and public participation as the driving force behind decision-making and achieving long-term goals

 ■   Promote the environmental, economic, social and aesthetic benefits of trees as necessary elements of a thriving city and region

 ■   Increase awareness of urban forest issues and TFW initiatives among Wilmington leaders and residents

 ■   Incorporate professional tree care standards, best management practices and urban forestry research as integral components of progressive city planning and policy

 ■   Support the tree care efforts of neighborhood groups, not-for-profit partners, public stakeholders, city agencies and economic development groups through enhanced coordination of projects and policies

 ■   Establish goals and guidelines for increasing tree cover, species diversity and public safety

 ■   Develop a comprehensive urban forest management plan that addresses both short- and long-term goals

 ■   Implement this plan with diverse funding support that reflects the status of city trees as vital community assets