Educational Resources

Urban & Community Forestry

Here are some educational resources about urban and community forestry, tree plantings and demonstrations, tree species recommendations for the US Virgin Islands, and overall benefits of trees.

Recommended Tree Species for Plantings

Here is a list of trees recommended for planting in the US Virgin Islands. We specify trees that are preferred for planting near sidewalks and in riparian areas.

Recommended Trees

Planting in the USVI

"To successfully plant and establish a healthy tree, the tree planter must consider the trees’ needs and provide them. Different trees have different requirements, and a healthy tree depends on having appropriate soil conditions and receiving the proper amounts of sun and water. This guide will help you put THE RIGHT TREE IN THE RIGHT PLACE and give you the “how to” for planting healthy trees."

Urban & Roadside Plantings

Looking to plant a tree near a road? We have some helpful tips for you!

Small Trees

Looking for a small tree to plant in the USVI? Here is a list of small trees for planting including: adult height, salt and drought tolerance, growth rate, unique characteristics, and more!

Tall Trees

Looking for a small tree to plant in the USVI? Here is a list of small trees for planting including: adult height, salt and drought tolerance, growth rate, unique characteristics, and more!

Climate Change Mitigation

Trees are vital in mitigating climate change. Studies have shown that trees reduce urban temperatures, reduce stormwater runoff, and decrease air pollution.

Storm Resilience

Urban forests provide strong resilience to storms thru erosion prevention, by serving as wind breaks, and more. Check out our links below for further reading materials.

Medicinal Trees of the US Virgin Islands and Neighboring Islands

By Robert W. Nicholls, PhD

"Trees of the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and neighboring islands

have traditionally been used for their timber and fruit, as well

as for their medicinal properties."

Native Trees for Wildlife Landscaping

By Southgate Coastal Reserve and Saint Croix Environmental Association

"Planting native trees and other plants for landscape purposes helps to preserve natural biodiversity and provides food and shelter for wildlife." Check out the brochure in the link below to find out more information.

Exotic Invasive Species, US Virgin Islands: Fact Sheets

Daley, B., J. Valiulis, & R. Slatton. 2012. Exotic Invasive Species; US Virgin Islands; Species Affecting Forests. Doc. # GS-VIDA-1201. St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.

Invasive species can be harmful to ecosystems and the economy. Click the link below to read how you can educate yourself about exotic invasive species in the US Virgin Islands.

For the Kids!

Download a free urban forestry word find for the kids. They can learn some forestry terminology while racing each other to finish the word find!

Word Find

Resources: Services