There are over 15,000 trees in Portsmouth that provide natural and historic character, filter environmental pollutants, aid in storm water runoff and filtration, provide wildlife habitat, provide screening, increase biodiversity and improve quality of life. Our arborists preserve the urban forest through tree preservation techniques, as well as yearly tree plantings and inventory management to maintain a diverse urban forest.

​​​​​​The purpose of the City Tree Grant Program is to increase the number of shade tree plantings in locations where planting within the right of way is not appropriate due to underground or overhead utilities, or lack of adequate space.

In 2017, the Trees and Greenery Committee suggested that it might be beneficial to have some type of tree maintenance trust fund created to accept donations from persons wishing to contribute funds for planting or maintenance of trees, public greenery, landscape or other aesthetic improvements in the City. If you are interested in donating, contact Corin Hallowell or Max Wiater, Arborist Foreman at the Department of Public Works.

You can view the trust here. 

Environmental Threats and Resources

The main purpose of the Committee is to advise and assist the City’s Tree Warden in implementing the provisions of the “Portsmouth Urban Forestry Ordinance,” [Article III, Section 8.300] to ensure the proper expansion, protection and maintenance of the City’s Urban Forest, by (1) establishing on public lands and public rights of way as many trees as can be maintained in a suitable and aesthetically pleasing manner; (2) encouraging the planting of trees that will represent a diversity of species and age classes; (3) regulating the enforcement and planting and maintenance of trees on City property; and (4) establishing limits on the amount of disturbance that may take place on any public property. 

Go to the Trees & Public Greenery Committee page. Minutes of past meetings are archived in the Meetings calendar. Search by committee name.