A healthy urban forest contributes to a greener and more inclusive city by improving air quality, enhancing biodiversity, and enriching the overall quality of life.

To help guide the future of our urban forest, the City of Oshawa is developing its first-ever Forestry Master Plan, a 20-year strategy aimed at guiding the growth, care, and sustainability of our urban forest.

The importance of trees

  • Trees for everyone

    The Oshawa Tree Equity Inex map is a tool for all, designed to help ensure that the benefits of trees are distributed fairly across all neighbourhoods.

  • Make space for trees

    Large shade trees require access to large volumes of un-compacted soil. Good urban design through planning and engineering can ensure sufficient space.

  • Trees thrive through community

    Most of the urban forest is on private property. It is vital for individuals to manage their trees proactively so they can function properly.

  • People need trees

    Oshawa’s urban tree canopy includes 43,971 street trees, which collectively have an estimated replacement value of approximately $56 million. These trees play a vital role in enhancing the city's ecological health.

Oshawa's Tree Equity Index

An analysis of tree equity in Oshawa involved creating a tool called the Tree Equity Index (TEI); this tool is a map designed to help ensure that the benefits of trees are distributed fairly across all neighbourhoods. The map was developed using four indicators:

  • Tree Equity Scores (TES)
  • Population Density
  • Tree Cover
  • Impervious Surfaces

The tool assigns scores to each neighbourhood on a scale from zero to 100 to indicate the levels of tree equity. A higher score (closer to 100) signifies a neighbourhood with a higher priority for taking action to address Tree Equity, such as tree planting and creating space for large-stature trees. A lower score (closer to 0) indicates a neighbourhood with a lower priority for actions.

Share your feedback!

Community members are invited to provide their feedback on the Forestry Master Plan through the following options:

  • Complete the online feedback form below.
  • Pick up a paper feedback form at Service Oshawa, 50 Centre St. S.
  • Speak with City staff at Shape Oshawa on September 24 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Oshawa Centre (near Old Navy).
  • Discuss the Plan with City staff at the Rose Valley Community Park Opening on October 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1095 Thornton Rd. N.
  • Join LEAF and City staff at a Community Tree Planting event at Lakeview Park on October 26 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is required to participate in the tree planting. Visit yourleaf.org/events to register.

Feedback will be received until noon on Monday, November 17, 2025 and will be considered by the project team.

Feedback Form