Minnesota communities are already planning for a warmer, less predictable climate. One way to prepare is by learning which tree species can survive and thrive in urban and community forests as growing conditions change.
This project studies climate-adaptive tree species across Minnesota communities. Researchers will monitor tree health and performance, work with volunteers to collect data, and learn how land managers and community members think about the risks and benefits of planting less familiar climate-ready tree species.
Project information
Research project title: Trialing climate-ready woodland trees in urban areas
Focus: Climate-ready trees, urban and community forests, participatory science
Timeline: July 2025 to June 2028
Funding source: Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund
Background
Climate change is expected to affect Minnesota’s forests, woodlands and urban tree canopy in many ways. Researchers and forestry professionals have developed lists of climate-ready tree species that may be better suited to future growing conditions. These include some species that are native to the southern United States but are not yet common in Minnesota.
However, more information is needed about how these species perform in cities and metropolitan areas. Urban trees face a unique mix of stressors, including compacted soil, heat, limited planting space, road salt, pests, disease and human impacts. At the same time, Minnesota communities have experienced serious tree losses from pests and pathogens, which can make land managers cautious about planting unfamiliar species.
This project will help communities make more informed decisions about future tree planting by studying both tree performance and public perceptions of climate-ready tree species.
Research questions
This project will explore questions such as:
- Which climate-ready tree species are already growing in Minnesota communities?
- How well do selected climate-adaptive tree species survive and grow in urban and community settings?
- What site conditions appear to affect tree health, survival and performance?
- How do land managers, volunteers and community members think about the risks and benefits of planting less familiar tree species?
- How can participatory science help connect communities with forestry climate adaptation research?
Project activities
Recruit participatory scientists and partner organizations
The project will recruit volunteers, local governments, park systems, nonprofit organizations and other partners to help identify and monitor climate-ready tree species. The research team will also compile existing urban tree inventory data and develop online content, including web resources and a data collection app.
Monitor climate-ready tree survival and performance
Researchers, students and trained volunteers will visit selected trees once per year and collect data using established urban tree monitoring protocols. The data will help identify how different species are performing across Minnesota communities and what factors may influence their survival.
Understand perceptions of risk and resilience
UMN Extension will lead field tours in participating regions to share project goals, highlight climate-ready trees and gather feedback from participants. The project will also include interviews and surveys to better understand tree stewardship knowledge, risk perceptions and motivations related to climate change adaptation.
Practical implications
The results of this project will help land managers, communities and property owners make better decisions about future tree planting. By studying both tree performance and public perceptions, the project will support more resilient urban forests and help communities prepare for changing climate conditions. The project will also create opportunities for people to participate directly in forestry research and contribute data that can inform climate adaptation work across Minnesota.
Findings
This project began in 2025 and will continue through June 2028. Initial results are expected in 2026. Project updates, data summaries, presentations and related resources will be shared as they become available.
Funding acknowledgment
Funding for this project is provided by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources.