By Olivia Witthun, DNR Urban Forestry Coordinator; Olivia.Witthun@wisconsin.gov or 414-750-8744
Employee attitudes and well-being improve with exposure to nature. Think about it. Every weekday we commute to work, only to be met by a dark cubicle in shades of beige and grey. Ever wonder why your mood starts to match the walls? It’s because the workplace environment contributes to employee health. We’ve known this to be true (anecdotally) for a long time, but mounting scientific evidence proves our urban and community forests have beneficial effects on employee performance. Continue reading “Improving Employee Well-being With Exposure To Trees And Nature”
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the recipients of the Urban Forestry Catastrophic Storm Grants to assist with damage sustained during statewide extreme storm events that took place June 21-25, 2024. 
The trees on school properties mirror those of the surrounding urban forest in composition but not in coverage.
*These training opportunities are provided as an information service only and does not constitute an endorsement from the WI DNR.
“Wisconsin’s forests are a critical resource for our state, promoting clean air, preserving natural habitats, and bolstering our statewide economy,” said Gov. Evers. “Thanks to our local and federal partners, these investments help build a stronger, more resilient forestry industry, and will protect our environment and grow our economy for generations to come.”
Cities, villages, towns, counties, tribes and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in or conducting their project in Wisconsin are encouraged to apply for a regular or startup 2025 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Urban Forestry Grant. 
On Aug. 20, 2024, the First Downs for Trees program celebrated its 14th year with a ceremonial tree planting at Amelia Cornelius Park, Oneida Nation. The program is a cooperative effort between the DNR, the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Public Service and corporate sponsor Green Bay Packaging, Inc. The donated trees offset the Packers’ carbon footprint when flying to away games.
*These training opportunities are provided as an information service only and do not constitute an endorsement from the Wisconsin DNR.
Join us for a two-part workshop on the value and uses of bare root trees and how to use gravel beds to hold and maintain bare root stock before it is planted. Part one will be delivered via Zoom on Friday, Sept. 20. Part two will be an in-person field day visit to an operating gravel bed. You will select one of the six locations around the state during registration. ISA CEUs will be available for both parts.