Urban Forestry · Research · Workforce
The Ulmus Foundation advances the health and resilience of urban trees across the United States — through research, education, and the next generation of arborists.
Our ProgramsConducting applied scientific research to improve the ecological performance, climate resilience, and long-term health of urban forests nationwide.
Bridging the gap between academic research and on-the-ground practice — translating findings into accessible standards and direct technical guidance.
Increasing access to careers in urban forestry — from high school students to early professionals — through structured internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship.
Why Urban Forests Matter
Urban trees filter particulate matter, absorb pollutants, and produce oxygen — making city air measurably cleaner and safer to breathe.
Canopy cover moderates urban heat island effects, sequester carbon, and provides shade that reduces cooling energy demands.
Tree roots and canopy intercept rainfall, reducing runoff, flood risk, and the burden on municipal stormwater infrastructure.
Urban forests create habitat corridors for birds, pollinators, and wildlife — supporting ecological networks within cities.
Access to urban greenery is associated with lower stress, improved mental health outcomes, and greater physical activity.
Well-maintained urban trees increase property values, foster community identity, and make neighborhoods more livable and equitable.
Career Pathways Program
Many municipalities face critical shortages of trained arborists and urban forest managers. We're addressing this by creating clear, supported pathways into these essential professions.
Our programs connect young people — including those from communities historically underrepresented in environmental careers — with the training, mentorship, and credentials to build meaningful livelihoods caring for our urban forests.
The Ulmus Foundation operates as a private operating foundation — directly conducting research, running programs, and delivering expertise. We pursue impact through rigor, collaboration, and open knowledge-sharing.
Demonstration plots, living laboratories, and pilot projects that test interventions under real-world urban conditions.
Drone canopy assessment, LiDAR, GIS mapping, remote sensing, and soil sensors to monitor forests at scale.
Working with accredited universities, municipalities, and nonprofits to maximize research reach and real-world adoption.
Publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals and open-access toolkits, field manuals, and digital resources for practitioners.