trees

As Miami weighs changes to its tree protection laws, an FIU analysis finds that city rules meant to mitigate tree removal are inadequate, leaving the city well behind its promise of 30% canopy coverage.

After months of delays, the city of Miami commission has withdrawn its controversial tree ordinance law. On Thursday's meeting, commissioners approved the re-naming of West End Park as a tribute to Reyes, who died of cancer earlier this month.

Miami’s Trees Matter Most Coalition, which includes environmental advocates, neighborhood leaders, urban foresters and others, said the commission has delayed votes since last October — a move they contend is “a clear attempt to wear down opposition, discourage civic engagement, and delay accountability.”

About half of Miami’s signature native trees might not be able to handle the rising temperatures caused by climate change.

As Miami-Dade seeks feedback on an Urban Forestry Draft Plan to tackle extreme heat, the county's chief heat officer tells WLRN trees are "the greatest tool we have for keeping Miami-Dade cool." They also absorb stormwater, provide a habitat for wildlife, aid pollution and beautify streets. "We need to start treating trees as the critical infrastructure that they are," she said.

Miami-Dade has fallen behind on its decade-old pledge to cover more than 30% of the county with tree canopy, leading to growing inequality across the region as wealthier neighborhoods stay shaded, while poorer communities bake — leading to higher electric bills and more emergency room visits.

A countywide group of churches, synagogues, mosques and religious universities invited Miami-Dade County elected officials to hold their feet to the fire on trees — particularly in under-served communities.

As sea levels rise, saltwater intrusion and heat will create challenges for certain plants and trees to survive in the coming years, and Florida is on the front lines.

One bite of the fruit from the manchineel tree can be lethal, and contact with the bark, leaves and sap of the tree results in blisters and extreme pain.

America's oldest trees store vast amounts of carbon. Counting them is the first step to preserving them, says the Biden administration.

Tree experts say Florida communities preparing for climate change should plant more shade trees and fewer palms. Palm lovers are objecting.

The pandemic and political strife didn't give us a break in 2021 — but WLRN staffers still found some moments of joy in their reporting.