Public entities can get climate ready trees to beautify and protect urban areas
SANTA FE – March is Arbor Month in New Mexico, with Arbor Day observed on March 7; a time to celebrate the essential role trees play in our community.
To celebrate, the Forestry Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department is inviting governmental entities— such cities, schools, counties, and non-profits to apply for Climate Ready Trees to plant in public spaces across the state. These trees are specifically selected to thrive in New Mexico’s hot, dry conditions, ensuring lasting benefits for urban landscapes. Working with Forestry Division staff, local entities will be able to select trees that are most likely to thrive in their particular area. Choosing the right adapted trees is especially important in cities. While urban and community lands account for just 2% of New Mexico’s total land area, close to 80% of the state’s people live in these areas.
“As our climate becomes hotter and drier, our cities experience greater heat impacts as they are warmer than surrounding areas, particularly during the day,” said Melissa McLamb, Forest Restoration Officer with EMNRD’s Forestry Division. “Urban tree canopies are often overlooked but healthy trees in our cities keep our cities cool, more resilient to wildland fire and beautiful. They are critical for city planning, public health and climate resilience.”
This program utilizes tree species lists designed by The Nature Conservancy to identify suitable trees that can be introduced into our increasingly arid environments. Demonstration sites are needed to test these trees’ adaptability to urban environments and inform nursery operators and the public about further opportunities to enhance green spaces.
Climate Ready Tree Species available for Spring 2025:
• Atlas Cedar,
• Chinese Pistache,
• Ginkgo,
• Lacebark Elm,
• Osage Orange,
• Shumard Oak,
• Texas Redbud,
• Texas Mountain Laurel.
To learn more and apply, visit https://www.emnrd.nm.go v/sfd/urban-and-community- forestry/climateready- trees/