Forests have always been one of our country's basic renewable natural resources. Forestry is therefore a career that one chooses to become a part of our nation's growth and heritage. From the time of the pilgrims to the present, our country's forests have not only been our pride, but a source of material wealth for the growth of this nation. The abundant wealth that is our forests, has been taken for granted for too long, and by too many. The way we have managed this natural resource has not always been the best for the nation as a whole. In our haste to build a better life, we have not always taken into account the plants, animals and soils we are destroying. Ultimately, biodiversity will be a key indicator of our society's progress.

The development of the Urban Forest is fast becoming a major concern. The population shift in our country from rural to urban is undeniable. People see trees as a barrier to the hot summer sun and harsh winter winds. They see trees as a source of natural aesthetic beauty. Trees are a resource for the renewal of inner peace and health. Trees are landscape essentials, increasing the value of property. The question has become 'What tree do I choose and what do I do to maintain it?'

The public needs to be educated, enabling them to choose the best possible tree for the site. We need to address the development of urban forests for our future use as a society. From the times of Robin Hood to the original native Americans, and then the Revolutionary War soldier, the forest has served as a haven of safety and escape. Awareness of trees has been developed through many programs during the last decade. Now we must develop the skills that anyone can use to help develop the Urban Forest. The job of urban reforestation is too large for any group to do on its own. With skills and resources available, many people can contribute to the reforestation process. This program has been developed as part of the conservation ethic that is now finding a rebirth in our nation.

Urban Forestry Laboratory Exercises has been developed as a supplemental activity guide that can be used in any science or interdisciplinary class. The hands-on activities are designed to be data gathering exercises leading the student to make judgments based on analysis and synthesis of the gathered data. The inventory necessary to complete the exercises is listed in this guide. The materials listed in the Forester's Trunk of Tools can be shared. During development of this curriculum, Forester's trunks were kept at the Morton Arboretum and shared by teachers from several districts. Establishing a similar relationship with an arboretum or library in your area, may be a good way to obtain the equipment and coordinate sharing among several schools. Teachers can modify the enclosed materials as needed. In the beginning, it will be most helpful if the teachers follow the activities as outlined, but later teachers may want to modify them as they gain experience with the materials and with their students.