Our Mission

TREE Fund is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to support scientific discovery and dissemination of new knowledge in the fields of arboriculture (the science of cultivating and managing trees in a landscape) and urban forestry. Since its inception in 2002, TREE Fund has distributed nearly $3.2 million in funding. Knowledge gained from TREE Fund research directly impacts tree care practices, arborists’ techniques and people’s lives every day.

The results of TREE Fund research grants include:

  • Public safety and electric service reliability have been improved by scientifically determining which trees have the greatest potential to cause property damage, electrical outages, or a wildfire.
  • Studying ways to control diseases and pests has made it possible to minimize the damage caused by bark beetles and invasive ‘exotic’ pests, such as the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle.
  • By researching planting depth, soil mixtures and paving technology, the methods for growing strong, healthy landscape trees have been revolutionized.
  • Quantifying the benefits of trees to the economy and environment makes it easier for governments and businesses to determine the return they’ll get on their tree care investment. Studies have focused on real estate values, air pollution reduction and the urban heat island effect, to name a few.
  • Improving the survival of new tree selections for urban sites has been achieved through the development of hardier, drought and disease-resistant species.

Reducing pesticide and mechanical interventions has been achieved by proving the value of integrated pest management, which takes advantage of the tree’s natural characteristics and surroundings to fight pests and diseases.

Download our flyer “What has TREE Fund done for you?” to learn more.