The Town of Comox is preparing a new Urban Forest Management Strategy to shape the future of the urban forest in our community.

It is hosting an open house to discuss the topic from 430pm to 630pm today at the d’Esterre Seniors’ Centre.

Comox’s Urban Forest Management Strategy will set a course for caring for the urban forest over the next 30 years.

To develop the strategy, the Town wants to hear from residents on their  concerns and priorities for urban forest management.

The Urban Forest Management Strategy will provide a community-supported vision and action plan that reflects what is heard during public engagement.

It will include baseline information on the state of Comox’s urban forest, including its extent, diversity, benefits, and needs.

There will be another open house in the fall.

Today’s session will focus on learning more about the urban forest and gathering questions from the community that will help shape the vision and direction of the strategy.

Residents can visit Engage Comox Valley to submit places in Comox where they’d like to see the urban forest improved.

Submissions will be taken until March 31st.

There’s also an online survey to share thoughts on management guidelines, policy direction, how to prioritize locations for growing the urban forest (including right on your boulevard) and more.