The primary purpose of this Uban and Community Forestry Capacity grant program is to promote better urban forest management and the resources necessary for the retention and expansion of community tree canopy throughout the State of Florida. Trees are a vital component of urban infrastructure but must be properly managed to maximize the benefits they provide to the community. By properly managing their tree infrastructure, communities can increase property values, tourism appeal, and the physical and mental health of residents, while reducing storm water runoff, energy consumption, and air and water pollution. Community forest management also helps to identify public safety hazards to residents and structures and is a useful tool in storm preparation. Local community leaders and the public are encouraged to learn more about how urban trees benefit their community from an economic, social, and environmental standpoint. They are also encouraged to learn about proper species selection, planting, and care for trees to minimize future maintenance problems and how to utilize green infrastructure to reduce storm water runoff.