Obetz Expands Tree Canopy with Major Planting Initiative

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The City of Obetz is excited to announce significant progress in our ongoing Tree Improvement Project, a major initiative aimed at increasing our community’s tree canopy and addressing critical environmental challenges. Thanks to a $100,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service and American Forests, along with an additional $100,000 contribution from the City of Obetz, we have successfully planted nearly 500 trees throughout the community.

Tree Planting Highlights

As part of this initiative, trees were strategically planted in key areas to maximize environmental and community benefits:

  • Bridlewood Neighborhood – Approximately 90 trees
  • Butler Farms – 20 trees
  • Bixby North – 50 trees
  • Alum Creek Drive – 22 trees
  • Groveport Road – 160 trees
  • Recreation Trail – 156 trees

Diverse Tree Selection for a Healthier Future

One of the most critical aspects of this project is the diverse selection of tree species, which prevents the risk of monoculture-related diseases and pest infestations. In the past, Obetz experienced widespread issues with crabapples, where Apple Scab disease would cause severe defoliation, leaving trees nearly bare in the summer. Additionally, many of these trees blew over unexpectedly as they neared the end of their life cycle.

By incorporating a wide variety of tree species, we are increasing resilience and ensuring that no single disease or pest can devastate the entire tree canopy. The newly planted trees include:

  • Maples: Freeman, Armstrong, Brandywine, Red Sunset, Sun Valley, and Sugar Charm
  • Oaks: Swamp White, Bur, Chinkapin, Shumard, and Regal Prince Red Oak
  • Lindens: Redmond and Sterling Silver
  • Elms: Accolade, Frontier, and Patriot
  • Zelkovas: Musashino, Green Vase, and Village Green
  • Birch: River Birch
  • London Plane: Exclamation
  • Kentucky Coffeetree
  • Ginkgo: Autumn Gold
  • Blackgum: Nyssa Sylvatica
  • Hophornbeam: American Hophornbeam
  • Bald Cypress
  • White Pine
  • Dogwoods: Yellowwood and Kousa
  • Horsechestnut
  • Serviceberry: Autumn Brilliance
  • Lilac: Ivory Silk
  • Paperbark Maple

This species diversity strengthens our urban forest by reducing vulnerability to diseases like Dutch Elm Disease, Oak Wilt, and Emerald Ash Borer infestations while also providing a wide range of environmental benefits.

Why Trees Matter

Currently, Obetz has only about 22% tree canopy coverage, similar to the rest of Central Ohio, which is the fastest-growing urban heat island among the 60 largest U.S. cities. With rapid development and a projected population growth to 3 million by 2050, the risk of further tree loss is significant. Expanding our tree canopy provides numerous benefits, including:

  • Cooling Our Community – Trees provide natural shade, reducing surface temperatures and combatting urban heat effects.
  • Improving Air Quality – Trees filter pollutants from the air, reducing exposure to harmful particulates, particularly in areas like Dixon Quarry and McFayden Park, where pollution levels are high.
  • Enhancing Public Health – Increased tree cover is linked to lower rates of asthma, heart disease, and other chronic conditions.
  • Building Climate Resilience – As extreme weather events become more frequent, trees help absorb stormwater, reduce flooding, and protect against erosion.
  • Establishing Food Forests – Some plantings will provide free fresh fruit and nuts for the community, increasing access to healthy food options.
  • Creating More Livable Neighborhoods – Trees enhance property values, encourage outdoor activity, and improve overall quality of life.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. The City of Obetz will continue working to line residential streets with appropriate tree species, ensuring equitable tree distribution across all neighborhoods. The next phase of this initiative will involve ongoing maintenance, resident engagement, and further expansion of our green spaces.

For more information on the Tree Improvement Project, please contact:

Jess Griffith, Assistant Safety Director – jgriffith@obetz.oh.us
Stacey Boumis, Director of Community Services – sboumis@obetz.oh.us

Together, we are growing a healthier, greener, and more sustainable Obetz.