Establishing and maintaining urban forests improves Californians’ quality of life and the quality of urban natural resources. Trees provide energy conservation, reduce stormwater runoff, extend the life of surface streets, improve local air, soil and water quality, reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide, improve public health, provide wildlife habitat, and increase property values. The Urban & Community Forestry Work Group is coordinating grants, technical assistance, education and policy advice to local governments, nonprofits, private sector organizations and the public to advance urban forestry in key areas of the state.