Submit your input about plans to preserve the urban forest by using the online citizen engagement tool, Virtual Town Hall. Participate in a four-question survey that will ultimately identify citizens' top priorities in how the City of Virginia Beach should move forward with implementing the Urban Forest Management Plan. The topic will be available on Virtual Town Hall for public input until 5 pm on June 7.

Broadly comprised of urban parks, street trees, landscaped boulevards, public gardens, greenways, wetlands and natural areas, urban forests are dynamic ecosystems that play an important role in our environment: they filter air, water and sunlight, provide shelter to animals and recreational areas for people. They moderate local climate, slowing wind and stormwater, and shading homes and businesses to conserve energy. Urban forests are fundamental to Virginia Beach's physical beauty, strong neighborhoods, sustainable development, clean air and water, energy conservation, and economic vitality.

A sustainable Urban Forest Management Plan is crucial in order for the city to move forward proactively in enhancing the existing urban forest, and to meet the needs of an expanding population. Developing that plan will not only benefit the forest, but also improve the quality of life for generations to come.