Leesburg is launching a comprehensive inventory of its Town-owned trees to improve their care and management. The urban forestry project will assess approximately 10,000 trees located in parks and public spaces, with completion expected by March 2026, the Town of Leesburg reported.
Arborists will be surveying Town-owned trees, recording information on species, health, and care needs using tablets, and residents may see them working in parks and public spaces. The project is supported by a $30,000 grant from the Virginia Department of Forestry’s Urban and Community Forestry Program, representing an investment in Leesburg’s urban tree infrastructure, according to Town Urban Forester Melissa Westbrook.
Westbrook highlighted the benefits of urban trees to Leesburg’s news portal, noting they provide shade, wildlife habitat, improved air and water quality, stormwater management, and increased property values. The town aims to preserve and enhance its tree canopy through proactive management and planning to support these community benefits.
Urban Canopy Works and PlanIT Geo are leading the tree inventory, using advanced technology to conduct the assessment. The data collected will inform Leesburg’s Urban and Community Forestry Management Plan, helping ensure that the 10,000 trees play an active role in the town’s ecosystem and community well-being.
