Urban Forests: Reintroducing Native Species to Dalhousie University Campus.

Abstract

Urban forests are an important part of the community and people should aspire to maintain them in the same way they maintain their cars, homes and lawns. The benefits of an urban forest on campus are massive. The trees provide a place to play, relax, study and exercise. They also filter out carbon in the air and chemicals in the ground. They also provide sound and visual barriers. If used correctly they can also have an economic benefit. Lastly trees also provide stress relief. Unfortunately, the urban forest at Dalhousie University is in shambles, with terrible tree care and few native species. This project proposes that a new approach to tree maintenance, planning and tree selection practices be implemented. This is done by researching urban forests, interviewing experts, and by re-designing an area of campus to reflect an ideal, well maintained, native forest of Nova Scotia. By implementing this project Dalhousie could become a greener and more pleasant place to learn and grow.