Save North Texas Trees

19%

Average tree canopy coverage across North Texas cities

30%

Canopy goal by 2050

$9B

Value of Dallas' 14.7 million urban trees

19°F

Hotter in concrete areas vs. shaded neighborhoods

Aerial view of North Texas showing tree-covered neighborhoods alongside areas ready for new planting

The Opportunity

A Greener Future Is Within Reach

Cities across the region are setting ambitious canopy goals. Fort Worth aims for 30% coverage by 2050, Arlington is expanding its urban forest plan, and Plano, Frisco, and McKinney are all investing in tree preservation ordinances. Community planting programs and growing public awareness are creating real momentum region-wide.

More trees mean cooler neighborhoods, cleaner air, less flooding, and richer biodiversity. Every new tree planted helps close the gap — especially in underserved communities that stand to benefit most.

With organizations like the Texas Trees Foundation planting 1.5 million trees and counting, North Texas has a once-in-a-generation chance to transform its landscape for future generations.

Join the Movement

Why Trees Matter

Every Tree Makes a Difference

Trees are critical infrastructure for urban life — cooling our streets, cleaning our air, absorbing stormwater, and improving our health.

Cooling Heat Islands

Tree shade can reduce surface temperatures by 20 to 45 degrees according to the EPA. Shaded streets and buildings use less energy, lowering costs and carbon emissions.

Managing Stormwater

Urban trees across North Texas capture millions of cubic feet of stormwater runoff annually. Without them, neighborhoods from South Dallas to North Arlington to downtown Denton face increased flooding and overwhelmed drainage systems.

Purifying Air

Trees directly remove pollutants from the air, reducing asthma and cardiovascular disease rates. Communities with more tree cover consistently show better health outcomes.

Boosting Property Values

Studies show trees in neighborhoods increase residential property values and enhance community pride. A well-maintained urban canopy is a direct investment in local wealth.

Improving Mental Health

According to the American Psychiatric Association, spending time around trees reduces stress, anxiety, and improves mood. Green spaces are essential for community well-being.

Storing Carbon

The urban forests spanning Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, McKinney, and surrounding communities store hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of carbon, actively fighting climate change. Every tree planted is a long-term investment in a more sustainable future.

Close-up of native post oak tree bark and branches in North Texas

Native Species

Trees Worth Protecting

Post Oak Extremely hard to reproduce — protected under tree preservation ordinances across the region

Blackjack Oak Prominent native species across the Cross Timbers region, with 50% canopy protection required

Live Oak Drought-resistant evergreen providing year-round canopy and shade

Bur Oak Hardy native with deep roots that withstands Texas heat and helps prevent soil erosion

Cedar Elm Texas native well-adapted to local soil and climate conditions

Pecan The Texas state tree — provides food for wildlife and expansive shade canopy

Take Action

How You Can Help

Every action counts. Whether you plant a tree, attend a hearing, or spread the word — you are making a difference for our urban forest.

Plant Native Trees

Choose species adapted to North Texas soil and climate. Post oaks, live oaks, bur oaks, and cedar elms are excellent choices. Plant during fall or early spring for best survival rates. Texas Trees Foundation hosts free tree giveaways for eligible neighborhoods across Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, and surrounding communities.

Report Illegal Removal

Many North Texas cities enforce strong tree protection. Fort Worth's ordinance imposes fines up to $2,000 and civil penalties of $1,200 per diameter inch. Plano, McKinney, Frisco, and Arlington all have their own preservation codes. If you see unauthorized clearing, contact your city's urban forestry or code compliance division.

Support Local Organizations

Organizations like the Texas Trees Foundation, Plan-T, and Texan by Nature work year-round to protect and expand our canopy. Volunteer, donate, or participate in planting events in your community.

Advocate for Stronger Policy

Attend city council meetings and support urban forestry master plans in your community — whether you're in Fort Worth, Dallas, Denton, Arlington, Plano, or any other North Texas city. Your voice at public hearings makes canopy goals a priority.

Resources