Our Mission: Growing a Healthier Kirkwood for Generations to Come

Trees are more than just part of Kirkwood’s charm—they’re essential to our quality of life. The Urban Forestry Commission’s mission is to protect, maintain, and grow the trees that make Kirkwood a beautiful, healthy place to live. We’re here to ensure our community forest thrives today and for generations to come.

Our Story: A Legacy of Stewardship

In 1992, Kirkwood’s City Council established the Urban Forestry Commission with a clear purpose—protect the City’s urban forest. Since then, volunteers, City leaders, and residents have worked together to nurture the trees that define our neighborhoods, parks, and streets. Thanks to this shared commitment, Kirkwood has proudly earned its designation as a Tree City USA community for over 30 years.

How We Serve the Community

Healthy trees make for a healthier Kirkwood. Our commission works hand-in-hand with the City Forester and Parks and Recreation Department to:

• Maintain and grow Kirkwood’s urban tree canopy and advise on policies and best practices.
• Promote tree planting on public property, streets, and parks to keep our neighborhoods shaded and vibrant.
• Educate residents on tree care and why trees matter to our health, safety, and environment.
• Celebrate Arbor Day and lead other community events that bring neighbors together around a shared love for trees.

When our trees thrive, so does our community. Whether we’re planting a sapling along a sidewalk or preserving an old oak in a park, we’re building a greener, stronger Kirkwood—one tree at a time.

Your Voice Grows Our Urban Forest

The Urban Forestry Commission isn’t just about trees—it’s about people coming together to care for our community. Whether you want to listen in, share your ideas, or take a leadership role, there’s a seat at the table for you.

🌳 Meeting Schedule

When & Where We Meet
The Urban Forestry Commission meets monthly to discuss projects, policies, and opportunities to enhance Kirkwood’s urban forest.
🗓 Date: Fourth Tuesday of every month - No Meeting in December 2025
⏰ Time: 7:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Kirkwood City Hall | Main Level Conference Room, 139 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood, MO 63122

🌳 Public Participation

Your Ideas Matter
We welcome residents to attend our meetings, listen to discussions, and provide input on urban forestry initiatives. Whether you’re passionate about tree planting, concerned about tree care in your neighborhood, or just want to learn more about what we do, we invite you to join us.

➡️ How to Participate:

• Attend any of our monthly meetings—no registration required
• Speak during the public comment portion of the meeting
• Share your questions or ideas anytime by emailing slybm@kirkwoodmo.org

🌳 Meet Our Members

Our Commission is made up of Kirkwood residents who are committed to protecting and growing our urban forest. These volunteers bring their time, talents, and passion to serve our community.

👉 View the Full Membership Roster

🌳 Join the Commission — We Need Your Voice!

Love trees? Care about sustainability? Want to make an impact in Kirkwood? We’re looking for people like you!
Serving on the Urban Forestry Commission is a great way to:

• Help shape Kirkwood’s urban forest policies
• Support community tree planting and care initiatives
• Ensure a greener, healthier Kirkwood for generations to come

➡️ How to Apply:
Residents interested in serving can fill out the City’s Boards and Commissions Application online. Applications are reviewed by the Mayor when vacancies occur.

Apply here

Questions?
📧 Email us anytime at slybm@kirkwoodmo.org
📞 Call the City Forester at 314-984-5907

Together, we can grow a stronger, greener Kirkwood!

Knowledge That Grows Our Urban Forest

At the Urban Forestry Commission, we believe informed residents are empowered residents. Whether you’re planting a tree in your yard or curious about how Kirkwood manages its public spaces, these documents are here to guide you.

Meeting Minutes & Annual Reports

Stay in the loop on the decisions and discussions shaping Kirkwood’s urban forest. Each month, the commission meets to talk about new projects, maintenance updates, and ways to enhance our community’s tree canopy.

• View Meeting Minutes
• Read Annual Reports

Our Annual Reports give you a clear picture of what we’ve accomplished and where we’re heading next—because your trust matters.

Tree Ordinance

Kirkwood’s Tree Ordinance is the foundation for protecting and managing the city’s trees. It outlines the guidelines for planting, pruning, and removing trees on public property—and it ensures we remain a Tree City USA community.

• Read the Tree Ordinance

Tree Inventory Summary Report & Map

Our community’s trees are valuable assets. That’s why we’ve completed a comprehensive Tree Inventory, documenting the types, locations, and health of trees along Kirkwood’s streets and parks.

• View the 2025 Tree Inventory Summary Report
• View the 2017 Tree Inventory Summary Report
• Explore the Tree Inventory Map

This inventory helps us plan for the future—whether we’re planting new trees, managing pests, or keeping our streets safe and shaded.

Tree Manual

Planting a tree is an investment in Kirkwood’s future. The Tree Manual is a helpful guide for residents and contractors on best practices for tree planting, maintenance, and protection in public spaces.

• Download the Tree Manual

🌳 Every tree counts. Every neighbor matters. These resources are here to help you become a part of Kirkwood’s legacy of care and stewardship. Have questions? We’re here to help.

Urban Forester: Brandon Sly
📧 slybm@kirkwoodmo.org
📞 314-984-5907

Together, We Grow a Greener Kirkwood

The Urban Forestry Commission leads initiatives that celebrate Kirkwood’s commitment to a thriving urban forest. These programs invite you—our neighbors and partners—to take part in protecting and growing the tree canopy that makes Kirkwood special.

🌳 Advocate Award

Recognizing Champions for Kirkwood’s Trees
The Advocate Award honors individuals, organizations, or community groups who go above and beyond in supporting Kirkwood’s urban forest. Whether they’re leading volunteer tree plantings, educating others about the value of trees, or protecting the health of our local canopy, these advocates are shaping a greener future.

Past Recipients Include:

• Dedicated local volunteers
• Conservation partners
• Residents who have made significant contributions to urban forestry

➡️ Know someone who deserves recognition? Nominate them for the next Advocate Award!

Fill Out the Advocate Award Nomination Form

🌳 Arbor Day Celebration

A Day to Celebrate Trees—and the People Who Care for Them

Every spring, the Kirkwood Urban Forestry Commission hosts the Arbor Day Celebration, bringing together families, neighbors, and nature lovers.

What to Expect:

• Tree planting demonstrations—learn how to give your trees the best start
• Local vendors with eco-friendly products
• Live music and family-friendly entertainment
• Delicious offerings from food trucks
• Free educational resources on tree care
• Opportunities to connect with forestry experts

📅 Next Arbor Day Celebration
Date: April 26, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Kirkwood City Hall, 139 S. Kirkwood Rd.

➡️ Come plant roots with us!

🌳 Tree of the Year Program

Honoring Trees That Strengthen Our Community
Kirkwood’s Tree of the Year program highlights a native tree species that stands out for its resilience, beauty, and value to our environment and was an initiative of Mayor Liz Gibbons. This program raises awareness about the benefits of specific tree species and encourages residents to include them in their own yards and neighborhoods.

2025 Tree of the Year: The Post Oak (Quercus stellata)
A symbol of strength and sustainability, the Post Oak thrives in Missouri’s landscapes. It supports biodiversity, provides essential habitat for wildlife, and requires little maintenance once established.

📅 Tree of the Year Celebration
Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Kirkwood Performing Arts Center

Highlights Included:

• Educational talks by local forestry experts
• A featured presentation from Guy Sternberg, arborist and Post Oak specialist
• Tree giveaways to help you plant Kirkwood’s Tree of the Year in your yard
• Opportunities to learn about native tree care and sustainable landscaping

➡️ Learn more about the Post Oak and how you can get involved!
📄 Download the Post Oak Brochure
(This helpful guide includes planting tips, tree care advice, and more about why the Post Oak was chosen as Kirkwood’s Inaugural Tree of the Year in 2025.)

🌿 Our trees tell the story of our community’s values—strength, connection, and stewardship. Join us in writing the next chapter.
📧 Questions? Reach out at slybm@kirkwoodmo.org
📞 Or call us at 314-984-5907

Let’s Grow Kirkwood’s Canopy—One Tree at a Time

Street trees do more than make Kirkwood beautiful. They provide shade, improve air quality, increase property values, and create a welcoming environment in our neighborhoods. Planting the right tree in the right place helps ensure a healthy, thriving urban forest for years to come.

The Urban Forestry Commission works alongside the City Forester to help residents select and plant trees along public streets and rights-of-way. Together, we can keep Kirkwood green and growing.

🌳 Brochure on Tree Selection & the Public Right-of-Way

Choose the Right Tree for the Right Place

When planting in the public right-of-way, it’s important to select trees that are well-suited for Kirkwood’s streets and neighborhoods. Our Street Tree Selection Brochure makes it easy to:

• Discover the best tree species for Kirkwood’s environment
• Understand size, growth patterns, and maintenance needs
• Learn where to plant trees to avoid conflicts with sidewalks, utilities, and driveways

➡️ Download the Brochure and get started today!

🌳 Street Tree Request Form

Want a Tree Planted in Front of Your Home? We Can Help!

If you’d like to have a tree planted in the public right-of-way in front of your home, we invite you to submit a Street Tree Request Form. Our City Forester reviews each request and works with you to select a tree that’s a great fit for your location.

➡️ Complete the Request Form and help us grow Kirkwood’s urban forest—one tree at a time.

Why Street Trees Matter

• Cooler Streets: Trees reduce heat and provide shade
• Cleaner Air: Trees help filter pollutants and improve air quality
• Stronger Neighborhoods: Trees add beauty and encourage outdoor activity
• Wildlife Habitat: Trees support birds, pollinators, and other local wildlife

📧 Have questions? Email slybm@kirkwoodmo.org
📞 Or call the City Forester at 314-984-5907

Together, we can plant roots for a greener Kirkwood!

Helpful Tools to Keep Kirkwood Green and Growing

Whether you’re planting your first tree or managing the health of a mature one, these resources provide guidance every step of the way.

🌳 Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about street tree guidelines? Wondering who takes care of trees in public spaces? We’ve got answers!

➡️ FAQ

🌳 50 Trees / Keep Kirkwood Green

This community partnership works to plant trees throughout Kirkwood’s neighborhoods. Learn how you can help support these efforts and join a group of passionate volunteers making a difference.

➡️ 50 Trees Information

🌳 The Arbor Day Foundation

Find resources on planting and caring for trees, and learn about Tree City USA—an honor Kirkwood has proudly held for over 30 years.

➡️ Arbor Day Foundation

🌳 The Missouri Department of Conservation

Get local advice on native trees, wildlife habitat, and protecting Missouri’s natural resources.

➡️ Missouri Department of Conservation

🌳 Proper Mulching Technique

Mulch helps trees grow strong—when it’s done right! Learn best practices to keep your trees healthy and avoid common mistakes.

➡️ Mulching Guide

🌳 Emerald Ash Borer Found in St. Louis

This invasive pest threatens ash trees in our region. Learn what to watch for and how you can protect trees on your property.

➡️ Emerald Ash Borer Info

🌳 Emerald Ash Borer Management Guide for Missouri Homeowners

Step-by-step instructions for assessing and managing ash trees at home.

➡️ EAB Management Guide

Contact Us

Have questions or need guidance? We’re here to help!
Staff Liaison: Brandon Sly, City Forester
📧 Email: slybm@kirkwoodmo.org
📞 Phone: 314-984-5907
📍 Location: Kirkwood City Hall, 139 S. Geyer Rd., Kirkwood, MO 63122

🌳 Together, we can grow a stronger, greener Kirkwood.