Did Detroit Reject Planting Trees?

There has been a lot of discussion in recent years about the lack of trees in Detroit, Michigan. Some people have blamed the city government, claiming they have rejected proposals for planting trees in various areas. But is this accusation accurate? Let's take a closer look.

The Background of Detroit’s Tree Crisis

In the early 20th century, Detroit was known as the "City of Trees." It had a beautiful tree canopy that covered the streets and provided shade for residents during the hot summer months. However, with the industrial boom of the mid-1900s, many of the trees were removed to make way for more factories and buildings. This process continued through the following decades, and today Detroit is one of the least green cities in the United States.

The Proposal for the Strategic Tree Planting Initiative

In 2017, the city of Detroit proposed a Strategic Tree Planting Initiative (STPI). This plan aimed to plant 10,000 trees in the city of Detroit by the end of 2020. The goal was to create a healthier, more livable city by increasing the tree canopy and reducing the urban heat island effect. It also aimed to improve the overall quality of life for residents, especially those in lower-income areas that were disproportionately affected by the lack of greenery.

The Approval of the STPI Plan

The Strategic Tree Planting Initiative was approved by the Detroit City Council in 2017. The plan was funded by various sources, including grants from foundations, corporations, and the federal government. The city also committed to planting trees on vacant lots, along streets, and in public parks.

The Implementation of the STPI Plan

Despite the approval of the Strategic Tree Planting Initiative, the implementation has been slow. According to the STPI website, as of August 2021, 5,223 trees have been planted in the city of Detroit. While this is progress, it falls short of the 10,000 trees that were supposed to be planted by the end of 2020.

The Reason Behind the Slow Implementation of the STPI Plan

The slow implementation of the STPI plan has been attributed to a variety of factors. One reason is the difficulty in finding suitable locations for planting trees. Many areas of Detroit have underground infrastructure that makes it impossible to plant trees without causing damage to pipes or cables. Another reason is the lack of funding. While the STPI plan was funded by multiple sources, there is still a significant shortfall of money needed to carry out the plan in its entirety. Lastly, the Covid-19 pandemic has slowed down many aspects of life, including city services, which has made it difficult to implement the STPI plan at the pace originally intended.

The Conclusion

Contrary to popular belief, Detroit has not rejected proposals to plant trees in the city. In fact, the Strategic Tree Planting Initiative was approved by the Detroit City Council and has been partially implemented. While progress has been slow, the city is working on increasing the tree canopy and improving the overall livability for residents. It will take time and effort, but with continued support, Detroit can regain its status as the "City of Trees."