A program in partnership with:
Park Trees of Tomorrow is a pilot tree succession planning study led by Fairmount Park Conservancy, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, and local Park Friends groups. Every park – and its tree canopy – is unique. This project gathers community input to understand how neighbors use their park and how trees shape their park experience, in support of the Philly Tree Plan, a 10-year strategic plan for the growth and care of our urban forest.
As a part of the pilot, five neighborhood parks have been selected to participate in Park Trees of Tomorrow: Carroll Park, Dickinson Square Park, Elmwood Park, Jefferson Square Park, and Stephen Girard Park.
An initial component of the study involved a park user survey conducted at the end of 2025, which aimed to establish a general understanding of park usage to inform recommendations for future tree plantings.
The first round of community meetings has now concluded, and we’re grateful to the neighbors who joined us to share their feedback. A second round of community meetings will take place this spring to share updates. The second round of meetings will include initial recommendations for new tree locations in the parks, lists of suitable tree types (i.e. species) being considered, and general guidance for tree care and maintenance. Community feedback on these recommendations will be an important component of these meetings. Dates and details will be announced soon.