MORENCI — The City of Morenci has released a draft of the urban forestry plan outlining how the community will manage and expand its tree population over the next 20 years. The urban forestry plan is now open for public review before a final version is presented to the Morenci City Council for adoption.
The plan was developed after a citywide tree inventory conducted between August and October 2025. Consultants evaluated and mapped trees along public boulevards, in parks, cemeteries and at the Riverside Natural Area to assess overall condition and long-term management needs.
The urban forestry plan serves as a strategic framework for planting, pruning and removal programs while identifying staffing, budget and community engagement needs tied to Morenci’s urban forest.
The inventory documented 1,439 trees across 79 species, including 888 boulevard trees, 90 park trees and 460 cemetery trees. Trees along streets and in parks received an average condition rating of 2.85 on a 5-point scale, indicating generally healthy conditions.
City officials say the tree population provides significant environmental value. The plan estimates Morenci’s urban forest has a standing value of approximately $6.67 million and delivers about $23,842 in annual ecological benefits, including carbon storage, pollution reduction and stormwater mitigation.
The analysis also identified 557 open planting sites along city boulevards, meaning the urban forest could expand by roughly 50 percent if those locations are planted.
The plan also outlines goals such as increasing species diversity, creating volunteer tree stewardship programs and establishing consistent tree maintenance cycles.
Public comments on the draft urban forestry plan will be accepted through March 23. City officials plan to finalize revisions by the end of March, with the Morenci City Council expected to consider adopting the plan at its April 13 meeting.