Overview
In 2023, WMSRDC engaged a subset of Muskegon neighborhoods for their input on tree planting locations. During these meetings it quickly became apparent that the true need from these underserved communities is the removal of trees threatening public safety. With this knowledge, WMSRDC partnered with the City of Muskegon to provide a phased approach to urban forestry.
Thanks to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Urban and Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act (UCF IRA) Grant Program WMSRDC partnered with the City of Muskegon to provide a phased approach to urban forestry. In the summer of 2025, Davey Resources Group was competitively selected to begin this process with an unbiased and detailed tree inventory of Muskegon’s over 14,500 trees. Davey also produced a corresponding tree management plan to help the city organize future efforts and ultimately lead to restored tree canopy resilience with healthy and biodiverse trees.
To engage the youth of the community with this project, 21 trees were planted on Muskegon Public High School campus by high school students, DTE volunteers, and community volunteers (Aldea Coffee), with support from teachers/school administrators, Muskegon Community College, Muskegon Rotary, City of Muskegon, and WMSRDC. Other educational opportunities have included community presentations, updates to the Neighborhood Associations of Muskegon and Muskegon Lake Watershed Partnership meetings, and tree planting demonstrations and urban forested education to local students. This project also led to a Muskegon Community College (MCC) Forestry Program student having an internship for the City of Muskegon.
The remaining 15 tree removals and 9 plantings funded under this award were implemented by City of Muskegon staff in 2026.
The project team understands that the tree inventory and associated management plan outlined management above and beyond the funds of this project. Under the annual budget and future grants, the City of Muskegon will assume the responsibilities described in the management plan, including the continuation of dangerous tree removal and new tree plantings, administering updates to the tree inventory data, and consistent health monitoring of all trees within the city’s jurisdiction.
2025 Inventory Analysis and Maintenance Strategy – City of Muskegon
Contact Information
Fallon Chabala
Environmental Planner
231-722-7878 ext. 130
