Maple Ridge hosts a lively urban core surrounded by lush natural spaces including parks, wetlands, and farmland. Trees, other vegetation, soil, and the associated processes in these areas form Maple Ridge's urban forest.
The urban forest is a living asset, contributing to the quality of life by cleaning the air and water, shading and cooling streets and buildings, supporting biodiversity and providing habitat, offering high-value recreational opportunities, and supporting the local economy.
Maple Ridge's urban forest faces growing stress from climate change impacts like drought, intense storm weather, pests, and diseases. Additionally, accommodating urban growth for a growing population could lead to less desirable growing space for trees and challenge the Official Community Plan's tree retention policy.
The City of Maple Ridge Urban Forest Management Strategy (UFMS) outlines comprehensive measures to sustainably manage and expand Maple Ridge's vital green spaces and tree canopy in the context of urban development and climate challenges.
For information on the development and engagement process for the strategy, visit Engage.Maple.Ridge.ca/UFMS.