Whittier Urban Forest Management Plan | District 1 Workshop | September 29, 2026

The City of Whittier held a District 1 public workshop on September 29, 2026, to gather community input for a proposed Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) and its environmental review. Michael Baker representatives presented citywide canopy and environmental data and an inventory of more than 22,000 public trees; about 77% were reported in good condition, 21% fair, and 2% poor. The draft plan is expected to address canopy growth and equity, species selection, maintenance and replacement, public safety, climate resilience, implementation, and long-term monitoring. The environmental review is expected to include an initial study and EIR, with further public comment and hearings anticipated through fall 2027.

Residents raised concerns about tree removals, notice and appeal procedures, maintenance resources, District 1’s canopy gaps, outreach, and protecting trees on school and commercial properties. City staff said the plan is still being developed and invited further feedback; the city manager also noted that the city is recruiting staff arborists and has contracts with outside arborists. Participants suggested adequate planting and maintenance budgets, but no budget allocation, contract award, bid approval, or other procurement decision was made at the workshop. The presentation noted that a completed plan could support future state and federal grant applications.