Urban Ecosystem Analyses for the San Antonio Region

Two scientific studies of San Antonio's urban forest have been conducted. Known as Urban Ecosytem Analyses, these studies use advanced satellite imagery, computer image analysis, and sophisticated air pollution models combined with on-the-ground surveys. Stormwater management, air pollution removal, & energy savings of trees were evaluated, both currently and historically, to show changes over time.

In November, 2002, the first Urban Ecosystem Analysis for San Antonio was published. Aside from proving the enormous economic value of our urban forest, it showed an alarming loss of tree canopy cover over a 16 year period from 1985 to 2001. For more information, see San Antonio: Restoring the Urban Oasis

In September, 2003, Phase 2 of the Urban Ecosystem Analysis was published. It recommends a 35% overall tree canopy cover for San Antonio. This recommendation forms the basis of the Citizens Tree Coalition's tree preservation goals.

Additionally, the study measured tree canopy cover over the Edwards Aquifer recharge and transition zones in Bexar County. In 2003, that tree canopy cover was 43%. However, the huge Stone Oak master planned development had only 2% canopy cover in one typical residential enclave.