Sources & Data

Percentage of total city land area covered by tree canopy (14,883 acres = 42%), measured via aerial/satellite imagery analysis using USDA i-Tree methodology. Tree Pittsburgh 2020 data confirms city maintained canopy with net gain of 4 acres (2015–2020).

Aggregate annual value of ecosystem services from Pittsburgh's i-Tree Eco analysis: stormwater interception, energy savings, carbon sequestration, air quality improvements, and property value impacts. Confirmed $2.4M/yr for street trees only — $4.2M may include park trees or a broader analysis. Needs direct confirmation from primary i-Tree Eco report.

CMU study (Li & Kurland, 2026) found historically redlined Pittsburgh neighborhoods are 2.6°C (4.7°F) hotter. 55% of city covered by impervious surfaces, 52% classified as dark. Range reflects shade cooling from tree canopy and evapotranspiration measured in Pittsburgh.

Tree planting potential across all city parcels from the 10 x 10,000 Tree Impact Zones Report. Estimates room for 660,000+ additional trees citywide based on empty space on each parcel minus existing trees and buildings. 98,000+ parcels fall in priority Tree Impact Zones (TIZ 1–5).

Aggregated from 309 Census block groups. 4 priority areas (TES < 60).

Mean difference between current canopy coverage and recommended goal across all block groups.

Calculated by applying USDA Forest Service rate constants to canopy area data from American Forests. Carbon uses 0.28 kg C/m²/yr (Nowak et al., 2013); stormwater uses 7.3 gal/m²/yr. Tools like i-Tree Eco and Tree Equity Score use local models that account for precipitation, species, and leaf area, so their figures will differ. These estimates are designed for consistent comparison across cities, not as a replacement for a site-specific tree inventory.