Trees are a powerful tool for mitigating climate change’s effects and enhancing quality of life. Communities across the country are experiencing rapid growth and the effects of a changing climate with extreme weather events. Too much rain, too dry, too hot, too . . . something! Addressing climate change and its impacts on community residents while working to achieve tree equity, green infrastructure, and increased tree canopy, can be a powerful tool when combined with other public works efforts. This session will challenge public works departments to think about how they can increase their urban forestry programs, create a pathway for employment, and overall, see trees as a critical piece of infrastructure. Attendees will hear a three-part perspective on achieving better urban forestry for communities. The City of Des Moines’ city forester will share his perspective as a frontline urban forester and how to support urban forestry work within public works. “After this session, participants will be better able to:
• Discuss how trees are a critical part of green infrastructure and other current urban forestry trends.
• Showcase how to better integrate urban forestry programs into public works procedures.
• Describe urban forestry as a career pathway and recognize professionals who have achieved recognition and certification in the field.”
Contributor/Source
Leslie Berckes-Executive Director, LuanaVargas-Director of Credentialing Services, Shane McQuillan-City Forester
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Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
Program Types
CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Primer
Primers are used to educate policymakers about public works roles and responsibilities in public rights of way, the impact of federal workforce development policies on the industry and workforce, and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
Public Works Radio Podcast
Public Works Radio is the official podcast of the American Public Works Association (APWA), bringing the stories behind our communities to life. This podcast shines a spotlight on the people and projects that keep our cities running—humanizing the work and the professionals who make it happen. Each episode dives into a wide range of topics designed to educate and inspire, making public works more visible to everyone.
PWX
PWX session recordings cover a wide variety of topics, including integrating modes of transportation, traffic and transit, construction management, emergency management, engineering and technology, fleet and facilities, management, parks and grounds, snow and ice control, and stormwater/flood control, as well as solid waste, roads and bridges and water/wastewater. PWX sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Reporter Articles
APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
Snow
The Snow Conference session recordings feature public works professionals sharing the latest best practices in managing winter/snow operations more successfully, taking advantage of emerging technologies, understanding and preparing for the challenges ahead, and providing better service to their communities. Snow sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Tech Boxes
A tech box is a PDF take-away that provides information in lists, steps, or defined areas specifically focused on trending technologies.
Virtual Program
Virtual programs are live, interactive educational programs led by top experts in the field who provide timely information or address trending topics within an area. Programs often conclude with an open forum for Q&A.