Los Angeles Tree Canopy Assessment and Prioritization
This study used high-resolution imagery and LiDAR data to map the urban tree canopy for all of Los Angeles County, providing a parcel-level spatial understanding of the areas of existing tree canopy as well as possible (i.e. biophysically feasible) locations where the canopy can be expanded. Using the Census Block Group as its unit of analysis, the study found that canopy varied widely across the county, ranging from 1% to 80% cover. Areas the most in need of tree canopy were located in northern and southeast parts of the county. Read our full LA Tree Canopy Report (2016) here.
CURes partnered with the non-profit TreePeople, the University of Vermont Spatial Analysis Lab, and Savatree Consulting Group to produce the analysis, with funding from the US Forest Service and CAL FIRE. This work built on a previous CURes-led tree canopy assessment of the LA County coastal zone.
Read the press release about the tree canopy study.
Explore the tree canopy of LA County using our Tree Canopy Data Viewer
Community-Based Tree Prioritization
The data from the LA County assessment provides valuable information on the extent and location of our urban forest canopy, which can help guide decision-making. Along with collaborators, CURes has begun to conduct community-based tree canopy prioritizations in Southeast Los Angeles County.
- City of Commerce Final Report
- City of Commerce Tree Canopy Prioritization Report
- City of Lynwood Tree Canopy Prioritization Report
- City of Paramount Tree Canopy Prioritization Report
- City of Vernon Tree Canopy Prioritization Report
- City of Montebello Tree Canopy Prioritization Report
Ballona Wetlands Freshwater Marsh
In a multi-year study, CURes is working with the Ballona Wetlands Conservancy on research in the Ballona Wetlands Freshwater Marsh to better understand the habitat and how it integrates with urban life in Los Angeles. Topics of study include mosquito populations, hydrology, water quality, and vector control. CURes is also the convener of the Conservancy's Academic Science Advisory Committee (ASAC), which brings together wetlands experts from throughout California to provide scientific guidance on the challenges and opportunities facing a heavily managed urban freshwater marsh.
To learn more about wetlands, view our Wetlands Restoration Resources.
Native Gardens
The CURes team is working on planting and monitoring native garden projects in the Greater Los Angeles area by working with students at local schools to teach them about native and edible gardens, as well as their pollinators. As partners in Ballona Discovery Park, our staff helps manage and monitor the native and medicinal gardens.