Article

Needham has experienced a significant reduction in tree cover, losing 5.5% between 2014 and 2021, primarily due to private land clear-cutting for new homes. In response, the town has initiated a tree preservation committee and enhanced public land replanting, including disease-resistant elms.

Parks and Forestry Superintendent Ed Olsen aims to promote sustainability and diversity in tree planting, addressing both aesthetic and environmental concerns amid ongoing drought conditions. The town's future tree landscape is positioned to provide shade and ecological benefits for generations to come.