Buffalo Launches Program to Grow Tree Canopy in Underserved Areas
Buffalo, NY – The City of Buffalo today announced the launch of Buffalo Street Trees, a new educational initiative aimed at helping residents learn about the many benefits of street trees and encouraging them to contact the city to bring more trees to their neighborhoods. This effort is part of the city’s commitment to environmental health, neighborhood resilience, and quality of life for all Buffalo residents.
A cornerstone of the initiative is its strong presence in the community. Working in partnership with the University at Buffalo Regional Institute (UBRI), the city will meet residents where they are—at block club meetings, neighborhood gatherings, and community events—to share information about the benefits of trees and make it easy to request a free street tree for the areas in front of their homes.
“Trees are vital infrastructure that cool our streets, clean our air, and make neighborhoods more livable,” said City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon. “This initiative ensures that all residents, no matter where they live, get the information they need to share in those benefits. By being out in the community and working side-by-side with residents, we’re making Buffalo healthier, more equitable, and more resilient.”
To strengthen this grassroots effort, the city through UBRI is also launching a Street Tree Ambassador program. Ambassadors—local neighborhood leaders— will be recruited and trained to help carry out the outreach. They will engage residents directly, attend events, and build connections with civic associations and block clubs, extending the program’s reach across Buffalo’s neighborhoods.
The initiative is also supported by an information-rich website, www.buffalotrees.org, which serves as a hub for program details, resources on the benefits of trees, and a simple way for residents to request a tree.
UBRI brings extensive experience in public engagement to the initiative. The institute has led innovative efforts such as Imagine LaSalle, which engaged thousands of residents in shaping the future of Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park.
“Urban forestry is community forestry, and I’m excited about this effort and the direct engagement with those communities most in need of street trees,” said Deputy Parks Commissioner Andy Rabb. “Every tree we plant represents an investment in public health, neighborhood pride, and environmental justice. By working directly with residents, block clubs, and local leaders, we’re not only expanding Buffalo’s tree canopy but also deepening the connection between people and the public spaces that make our city thrive.”
“This initiative is about more than planting trees—it’s about building healthier, more connected communities,” said Bart Roberts, Director of the UB Regional Institute. “By being out in neighborhoods, partnering with local leaders, and equipping ambassadors to carry the message forward, we’re helping to grow Buffalo’s urban forest in a way that lasts.”