HARC and a coalition of local partners were awarded $15 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service to launch ForUsTree, a groundbreaking urban forestry initiative aimed at expanding tree canopy, improving environmental health, and creating green workforce opportunities in underserved communities across Houston and Harris County.
Led by HARC, this five-year program aims to strengthen Houston’s urban forestry by taking a community-based approach, focusing on tree planting, reforestation, and environmental education – while prioritizing fair distribution, youth employment, and community resilience. The initiative engages residents directly, conducting urban heat island mapping, and providing paid training pathways into green careers through hands-on forestry work.
Urban forestry is critical to Houston’s future. Expanding tree canopy improves air quality, reduces the heat island effect, strengthens stormwater management, and creates healthier, more resilient neighborhoods. ForUsTree connects communities to the many environmental, social, and economic benefits that trees provide.
ForUsTree is not just about planting trees, it’s also about investing in people. Through hands-on training and paid work experience, the initiative creates pathways into high-demand green careers. By prioritizing underserved neighborhoods, ForUsTree helps build a workforce ready to lead Houston’s sustainable future.
