Climate trends in Vermont reveal warmer and wetter winters, more periods of intense heat, stronger and more frequent storm and flood events, and increased severity of short- and long-term drought. As pest pressures and periods of extreme heat increase, Vermont cities and towns will likely see changes in the species composition and structure of our urban forests.

To help Vermont’s communities prepare for these changes, VT UCF has developed materials, compiled resources, and provides technical assistance to communities developing Community Preparedness Plans for storms and invasive forest pests, such as the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). A Forest Pest Management Plan outlines a municipality’s goals and objectives and the actions it will take to meet the current or anticipated impact of forest pests on its urban and community forests.