Up With Trees

PROJECT PURPOSE

In late 2020, the Oklahoma City Metro Area was hit by a devastating ice storm. This storm left in its wake long term issues with the tree canopy in Oklahoma City. Th ReTree OKC initiative would plant and establish 10,000 trees citywide and distribute 40,000 to residents, neighborhood associations and municipalities. The long term impact on storm water mitigation, physical and mental health, and over all livability for the City and its residents would repay the investment multiple times over.

EVIDENCE

I have attached a storm water brochure from the EPA as well as an overview document regarding benefits and economics of city trees. I have only attached two as to not overly inundate but many more can be provided.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

While all constituents in the Oklahoma City area would benefit from this program, plantings would initially focus on public green spaces in underserved areas of the community. Such greenspaces were invaluable throughout the pandemic as areas to promote physical and mental health. This program would strive to ensure that such opportunities are available regardless of where in the City anyone lives.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

All installed trees would be mapped and assessed through the 3 year establishment phase. an industry software (iTree) would be used to quantify the storm water benefits (among others) for the project period.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma