City Council Approves New Tree Trimming Schedule

🌳 City Council Approves Improved Tree Maintenance to Protect Upland’s Urban Forest 🌳

This week, the Upland City Council approved an important item to strengthen how the City cares for one of our most valuable community assets, our urban forest.

Upland is home to nearly 30,000 publicly owned trees, lining our streets, parks, and neighborhoods. These trees provide shade, improve air quality, enhance property values, and contribute to the character that makes Upland such a special place to live. In fact, the City’s urban forest is estimated to be worth more than $144 million.

Unlike most infrastructure roads, pipes, and buildings, that slowly depreciate over time, our urban forest is one of the few public assets that actually increases in value as it ages when it is properly maintained. That makes responsible care and maintenance essential.

To better care for this growing asset, the City Council approved transitioning Upland’s tree trimming cycle from 7 years to 4 years, bringing our practices in line with professional arborist standards and the maintenance cycles followed by many neighboring cities such as Ontario, Claremont, Rancho Cucamonga, and Corona.

### Why this change matters

🌿 Healthier Trees

More frequent trimming allows arborists to remove weak or damaged branches earlier, reduce disease and decay, and help trees develop stronger structure. Smaller, regular pruning cuts also reduce stress on trees and help them live longer.

🌬 Improved Safety During Wind Events

Upland regularly experiences Santa Ana wind events. A shorter trimming cycle helps reduce the risk of falling branches and tree failures during high winds.

🚦 Better Visibility and Traffic Safety

Regular trimming improves visibility at intersections by keeping traffic signals, street signs, and stop signs clear for drivers and pedestrians.

🛠 More Preventative Maintenance, Fewer Emergencies

Proactive tree care reduces emergency storm cleanup, unexpected failures, and costly reactive work.

🏡 Protecting Neighborhood Character and Property Values

Upland’s tree-lined streets are part of the charm and identity of our community. Well-maintained trees enhance curb appeal and the beauty of our neighborhoods.

🌳 Preserving a $144 Million Community Asset

With nearly 30,000 city trees, Upland’s urban forest represents a major public investment. Proper maintenance ensures it continues to grow in value and benefit residents for generations to come.

This effort is part of the City’s broader commitment to maintaining our infrastructure, protecting public safety, and investing in the long-term health of our community.

Thank you to our Public Works Department and Urban Forestry team for the tremendous work they do every day maintaining Upland’s trees, parks, and public spaces. Their work helps keep our city safe, beautiful, and thriving.

🌿 Taking care of our trees today helps protect Upland’s future tomorrow.