HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-23-26 - Urban Parks and Forestry Board - Agendas & Packet MaterialsA. Call to Order - 6:00 PM
B. Disclosures
C. Changes to the Agenda
D. Approval of Minutes
D.1 Approve Minutes from March 26, 206 Urban Parks and Forestry Board Meeting (Overton)
E. Public Comments on Non-agenda Items Falling within the Purview and Jurisdiction of the Board
THE URBAN PARKS AND FORESTRY BOARD OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
UPF AGENDA
Thursday, April 23, 2026
General information about the Urban Parks & Forestry Board can be found in our Laserfiche
repository.
If you are interested in commenting in writing on items on the agenda please send an email to
comments@bozeman.net or by visiting the Public Comment Page prior to 12:00pm on the day of the
meeting. At the direction of the City Commission, anonymous public comments are not distributed to
the Board or staff.
Public comments will also be accepted in-person and through Video Conference during the appropriate
agenda items.
As always, the meeting will be streamed through the Commission's video page and available in the
City on cable channel 190.
For more information please contact Mitch Overton, moverton@bozeman.net
This meeting will be held both in-person and also using an online videoconferencing system. You
can join this meeting:
Via Video Conference:
Click the Register link, enter the required information, and click submit.
Click Join Now to enter the meeting.
Via Phone: This is for listening only if you cannot watch the stream, channel 190, or attend in-
person
United States Toll
+1 346 248 7799
Access code: 934 5616 9186
This is the time to comment on any non-agenda matter falling within the scope of the Urban Parks
& Forestry Board. There will also be time in conjunction with each agenda item for public
comment relating to that item but you may only speak once per topic. Please note, the Board
cannot take action on any item which does not appear on the agenda. All persons addressing the
Board shall speak in a civil and courteous manner and members of the audience shall be respectful
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F. Action Items
F.1 Adoption of the 2026 and 2027 Urban Parks and Forestry Board Work Plan (Overton)
G. Work Session
G.1 Work Session: Review and Discuss Urban Forest Management Plan - Draft
Outline(Nordquest)
H. FYI/Discussion
H.1 Director Update(Overton)
I. Adjournment
of others. Please state your name, and state whether you are a resident of the city or a property
owner within the city in an audible tone of voice for the record and limit your comments to three
minutes.
General public comments to the Board can be found on their Laserfiche repository page.
This board generally meets the fourth Thursday of the month from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Citizen Advisory Board meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a disability that
requires assistance, please contact our ADA Coordinator, David Arnado, at 406.582.3232.
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Urban Parks and Forestry Board
FROM:Mitch Overton, Director of Parks and Recreation
Anhad Bajwa, Administrative Assistant II
SUBJECT:Approve Minutes from March 26, 206 Urban Parks and Forestry Board
Meeting
MEETING DATE:April 23, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:Approve Minutes from March 26, 206 Urban Parks and Forestry Board
Meeting
STRATEGIC PLAN:6.5 Parks, Trails & Open Space: Support the maintenance and expansion of
an interconnected system of parks, trails and open spaces.
BACKGROUND:In accordance with Commission Resolution 5323 and the City of Bozeman's
Citizen Advisory Board Manual, all Boards must have minutes taken and
approved. Prepared minutes will be provided for approval by the board at
the next scheduled meeting. Staff will make any corrections identified to the
minutes before submitting them to the City Clerk's Office.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:As suggested by the UPF Board.
ALTERNATIVES:As suggested by the UPF Board.
FISCAL EFFECTS:n/a
Attachments:
03.26.26_Minutes.pdf
Report compiled on: April 7, 2026
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Bozeman Urban Parks & Forestry Board Meeting Minutes, 3/26/2026
Page 1 of 3
THE URBAN PARKS & FORESTRY BOARD MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
MINUTES
3/26/2026
General information about the Urban Parks & Forestry Board can be found in our Laserfiche repository.
A) 00:00:09 Call to Order - 6:00 PM
B) 00:03:10 Disclosures - none
C) 00:03:29 Changes to the Agenda
Mitch Overton requesting the following changes:
Action Item F1 and F3, and switch them around. Make F3 item #1 and F1 item #3.
Board agreed to the change.
D) 00:04:59 Approval of Minutes
D.1 Approve Minutes from February 26, 2026 Urban Parks and Forestry Board Meeting
02.26.26_Minutes.pdf
00:05:10 Motion to approve Approve Minutes from February 26, 2026 Urban Parks and Forestry Board
Meeting
Paige Lisowski: Motion
Matthew Kortan: 2nd
E) 00:05:48 Public Comments on Non-agenda Items Falling within the Purview and
Jurisdiction of the Board
Marcia Kaveney, Bozeman Resident
F) Action Items
F.1 02:01:46 Review and Adopt 2026 and 2027 Urban Parks and Forestry Board Work
Plan
Mitch Overton, Director of Bozeman Parks and Recreation
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Bozeman Urban Parks & Forestry Board Meeting Minutes, 3/26/2026
Page 2 of 3
Per Chair, the board with vote on this Action Item at next month's UPF Board Meeting.
2026 Commission Priorities - FINAL.docx
UPF Work Plan 2024-2025 and narrative (003.PDF).pdf
UPF Work Plan 2026 -2027 and narrative.docx
Resolution 5328 Establishing Urban Parks and Forestry Board (1).pdf
Public Co 02:12:13 Public Comment on Action Item F.1) Review and Adopt 2026 and 2027
Urban Parks and Forestry Board Work Plan
Daniel Cardy, Bozeman Resident
F.2 01:05:50 Resolution Recommending Adoption of the Bikefill Community Bike Park
Master Plan
Addi Jadin, City of Bozeman - Planning and Development Manager
Adam Johnson, Gallatin Valley Land Trust - Trails Project Manager
UPFB-Resolution_Bikefill-Park-Master-Plan-Final.docx
Exhibit-A_Conceptual-Map.pdf
Exhibit__B_Bikefill_Park_Master_Plan.pdf
Exhibit_B1-Bikefill_Park_Master_Plan_Appendices.pdf
02:00:34 Motion to approve Adopt the Resolution Recommending Adoption of the Bikefill Community
Bike Park Master Plan
* Sally Schrank was the Seconder.
Joe Cartwright: Motion
Brandt Berube: 2nd
Public Co 01:21:47 Public Comments on Action Item F.2) Resolution Recommending
Adoption of the Bikefill Community Bike Park Master Plan
Doug McSpadden, Bozeman Resident
Ken Sinay, Bozeman Resident
Marcia Kaveney, Bozeman Resident and Tree Coalition
Rick Cheng, Bozeman Resident
Hal Stanley, Bozeman Resident
Angie Kociolek, Bozeman Resident
Dan Draper, Bozeman Resident
F.3 00:09:50 Review and Adopt the Community Engagement Plan for the Urban
Forest Management Plan
Alex Nordquest, City of Bozeman - Forestry Manager
Josh Elliott, DJ&A
Hannah Kuhns, DJ&A
Matt Urmson, PlanIT Geo
Myla Kelly, DJ&A
Urban Forest Management Plan - CEP - Action Item.docx
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Bozeman Urban Parks & Forestry Board Meeting Minutes, 3/26/2026
Page 3 of 3
01:00:29 Motion to approve Adopt the Community Engagement Plan for the 2026 Urban Forest
Management Plan
AMENDED - Amend the Community Engagement Plan to include another Work Session at the
September board meeting.
Paige Lisowski: Motion
Matthew Kortan: 2nd
Public Co 00:41:35 Public Comment on Action Item F.3) Review and Adopt the Community
Engagement Plan for the Urban Forest Management Plan
Daniel Cardy, Bozeman Resident
Marcia Keveney, Bozeman Resident
H) 02:13:39 Adjournment
This board generally meets the fourth Thursday of the month from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Urban Parks and Forestry Board
FROM:Mitch Overton, Director of Parks and Recreation
Anhad Bajwa, Administration Assistant II
SUBJECT:Adoption of the 2026 and 2027 Urban Parks and Forestry Board Work Plan
MEETING DATE:April 23, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Administration
RECOMMENDATION:Adopt the 2026 and 2027 Urban Parks and Forestry Board Work Plan
STRATEGIC PLAN:6.5 Parks, Trails & Open Space: Support the maintenance and expansion of
an interconnected system of parks, trails and open spaces.
BACKGROUND:The Urban Parks and Forestry Advisory Board creates and submits to the City
Commission a two-year work plan every other year. The UPF has utilized the
Boards establishment resolution, Resolution 5328, specifically the focus
areas, as well as the Bozeman Strategic Plan, Department Staff, and the City
Commission Priorities, to assist in the drafting of the two-year work plan.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None
ALTERNATIVES:As directed by Advisory Board
FISCAL EFFECTS:Any know fiscal effects are identified with each plan item
Attachments:
UPF_Work_Plan_2024-
2025_and_narrative__003.PDF_.pdf.pdf
Resolution_5328_Establishing_Urban_Parks_and_Forestry_Board__1_.pdf
UPF_Work_Plan_2026_-2027_and_narrative (1).docx
2026_Commission_Priorities_-_FINAL (1).docx
Report compiled on: April 17, 2026
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Urban, Parks and Forestry Board Work Plan 2024-2025
Focus Area 1: Organize the annual Arbor Day Program
Work Plan Item 1A: Contribute capacity to Annual Arbor Day Program
Resolution 5328 adopts the Urban Parks and Forestry Board (UPF Board) focus area of organizing
the annual Arbor Day program. In order to contribute capacity to Annual Arbor Day Program the Board
recommends aligning an annual work plan item. The site selection for 2024 was voted on by the
board and the unanimous decision is to plant 10 trees at North Meadows Park. The Forestry Division
will take the lead on training board members to properly explain all the details of a successful
planting to the public. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide support and training
throughout this planting during the Arbor Day Event at North Meadows Park. The 2025 site selection
will occur in accordance with the work plan schedule and matrix.
Focus Area 2: Review Reports Pertaining to Activity in Bozeman’s Urban Forests
Work Plan Item 2A: Update the Urban Forestry Management Plan
Resolution 5328 adopts the Urban Parks and Forestry Board focus area of reviewing reports
pertaining to Bozeman’s urban forests. As such the UPF Board has recommended that an update to
the Urban Forestry Management Plan is timely and appropriate for the 2024-2025 work plan. The
City of Bozeman last completed its Urban Forestry Management Plan (UFMP) in 2016. This plan is a
comprehensive review of Bozeman’s urban forest and how we can fully realize the benefits of our
trees. The UFMP was developed with public input, professional consulting, and Forestry Division
staff. The plan was further reviewed by Bozeman’s Tree Advisory Board and approved by City
Commission. The UFMP explains the many benefits trees provide for our community and provides a
strategy for management and planning for the future. As the city continues to grow, healthy trees
will become an increasingly important part of our community. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board
will provide feedback and amendments throughout the update.
Work Plan Item 2B: Update the Street Tree Guide
Resolution 5328 adopts the Urban Parks and Forestry Board focus area of reviewing reports
pertaining to Bozeman’s urban forests. The UPF Board has recommended and adopted updating
the Bozeman street tree guide as a work plan item for the 2024/2025 calendar years. The Street
Tree Guide is a comprehensive list of species and varieties that are approved for boulevard plantings.
There is much to consider for boulevard trees, as they need adequate space from underground
utilities, sidewalks, driveways, and other trees. The guide includes brief descriptions, locations of
specimens, and tips on proper tree care. The guide is used by residents, developer, nurseries,
landscapers, and surrounding communities. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide
feedback and amendments throughout the update.
Work Plan Item 2C: Contribute to Historic Preservation Policy Development regarding Trees
Resolution 5328 adopts the Urban Parks and Forestry Board focus area of reviewing reports
pertaining to Bozeman’s urban forests. During the 2024 and 2025 work plan timeline the UPF Board will
contribute to Historic Preservation Divisions policy development regarding tree preservation and or trees
as landmarks. Historic Preservation is an established priority of city planning in Bozeman. Preservation goes
beyond saving old buildings, it creates a unique sense of place, a sense of community and bridges the gap
between the past and our future. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide feedback and
assistance as needed throughout the policy development.
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Focus Area 3: Assess the equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails with an
emphasis on traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address
identified issues of disparity.
Work Plan Item 3A: PRAT Implementation/10 minute walk Analysis/Anchor Routes/Cash in Lieu Grant Program
Resolution 5328 adopts assessing the equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails, with an
emphasis on traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address identified
issues of disparity. As such the UPF Board work plan for 2024/2025 includes an analysis of access to parks
by all residents, the development of additional pathway and trail routes, and further developing a funded
grant program, as recommended in the recently updated Parks, Recreation, and Active Transportation
(PRAT) Plan. The plan identifies a vision and realistic, actionable goals for the City’s most valued
places – its parks, trails, and recreation facilities. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide
feedback and amendments throughout the update.
Focus Area 4: Evaluate the City’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan from Drafting
through Adoption
Work Plan Item 4A: Create a UDC update package utilizing PRAT Plan Recommendations
Resolution 5328 adopts evaluating the City’s parks, recreation, open space and trails (PROST) plan from
drafting through adoption. The PRAT plan (formally PROST) identifies a vision and realistic, actionable
goals for the City’s most valued places – its parks, trails, and recreation facilities. As such the UPF
Board recommends and has adopted utilizing recommendations from the PRAT to create a package
of Unified Development Code (UDC) updates as related to parks, recreation, and trails for City
Commission approval and adoption into the UDC. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide
feedback and amendments throughout the update.
Focus Area 5: Provide recommendations, when requested, about the City’s Sunset Hills
Cemetery
Work Plan Item 5A: Bi-annual Staff Update about Sunset Hills Cemetery and provide recommendations as needed
Resolution 5328 adopts that the UPF Board will provide recommendations, when requested, about the
City’s Sunset Hills Cemetery. The 73-acre Sunset Hills Cemetery, the only City owned and maintained
cemetery, is a virtual arboretum of stately pine, fir, spruce, ash, maple, cedar and various ornamental trees.
The cemetery currently contains over 16,000 burial sites with nine dedicated affiliation areas and room for
expansion. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide feedback during the updates.
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URBAN PARKS & FORESTRY ADVISORY BOARD WORK PLAN 2024-2025
Focus Area 1: Organize the Annual Arbor Day Program
WP Item Description: Strategic Priorities
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Contribute
capacity to
Annual Arbor Day
Program
Sustainable
Environment
3 meetings and
one volunteer
day/year
moderate December
through April
Budgeted in Annual
Forestry Div. Budget
Focus Area 2: Review reports pertaining to activity in Bozeman’s urban forests
WP Item Description: Strategic Priorities
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Update Urban
Forestry
Management Plan
Sustainable
Environment
Up to 3
meetings/year
substantial Years 1 & 2 Budgeted in Annual
Forestry Div. Budget
B. Update the Street
Tree Guide
Sustainable
Environment
Up to 3 meetings
per/year
moderate
Year 1
Budgeted in Annual
Forestry Div. Budget
C. Contribute to
Historic
Preservation policy
development for
trees
Well Planned City
Up to 3 meetings moderate Year 1
Budgeted in Annual
Forestry Div. Budget
Focus Area 3: Assess the equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails, with an
emphasis on traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address
identified issues of disparity.
WP Item Description: Strategic Priorities
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. PRAT
Implementation:
-10 minute Walk
Analysis
-Anchor Routes
-Cash in lieu grant
program
Safe, Welcoming
Community
Up to 3
meetings/year
substantial
Year 1 and
2
P&TD
10
4
Focus Area 4: Evaluate the City’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan from drafting
through adoption
WP Item Description: Strategic Priorities
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Create a UDC
update
package
utilizing PRAT
plan
recommendati
ons
Well Planned City
Up to 4
meetings/year
substantial
Year 1 and 2
P&TD
Focus Area 5: Provide recommendations, when requested, about the City’s Sunset Hills
Cemetery
WP Item Description: Strategic Priorities
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Bi-annual staff
update about
Sunset Hills
Cemetery and
provide
recommendations
as needed
Well Planned City
Sustainable
Environment
As needed
As needed
As needed
year 1 and 2
Cemetery
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Resolution 5328 Page 1 of 6
RESOLUTION 5328
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
BOZEMAN, MONTANA, ESTABLISHING THE URBAN PARKS AND
FORESTRY BOARD, AND DISBANDING THE TREE ADVISORY BOARD,
THE CEMETERY BOARD, THE TRAILS OPEN SPACE AND PARKS BOARD,
AND THE RECREATION & PARKS ADVISORY BOARD.
WHEREAS, Article IV, Section 4.07 of the Bozeman Charter permits the City
Commission to create boards, commissions, or committees as determined necessary; and
WHEREAS, on April 16, 2018, the Bozeman City Commission formally adopted the
Bozeman Strategic Plan via Resolution 4852; and
WHEREAS, the Strategic Plan Section 1.2 Community Engagement encourages the City
of Bozeman to “[b]roaden and deepen engagement of the community in city government,
innovating methods for inviting input from the community and stakeholders” by “restructure[ing]
or combin[ing] City boards and committees to more effectively advise the City and engage the
public;” and
WHEREAS, City Staff prepared a Memorandum and Proposed Plan for board
restructuring, made the plan available on May 20, 2021 for public review, and provided public
notice to inform the public of the opportunity to review and comment on the Proposed Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission held public work sessions on February 23, May 25,
and June 22, 2021 during which it received and reviewed all public, written and oral testimony on
the restructuring of City boards; and
WHEREAS, on June 22, 2021, and in consideration of such testimony, the City
Commission confirmed direction for City Staff to move forward with restructuring and
consolidating the City’s thirty-six Citizen Advisory Boards; and
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Resolution 5328 Page 2 of 6
WHEREAS, the City Commission now concludes that the creation of an Urban Parks
and Forestry Board is necessary to further the stated priority of Community Engagement as
established in Strategic Plan Section 1.2, and to further other goals and objectives of the City.
WHEREAS, the City Commission created and established the Bozeman Tree Advisory
Board (“BTAB”) pursuant to law and determines to disband the current TAB and assign its duties
and functions to the Urban Parks and Forestry Board;
WHEREAS, the City Commission created and established the Cemetery Board pursuant
to law in 1986 and determines to disband the current Cemetery and assign its duties and functions
to the Urban Parks and Forestry Board;
WHEREAS, the City Commission created and established the Recreation & Parks
Advisory Board (“RPAB”) pursuant to law and determines to disband the current RPAB and assign
a portion of its duties and functions to the Urban Parks and Forestry Board; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission created the Trails, Open Space and Parks Bond
Review Committee (TOP) in 2013 pursuant to law and determines to disband the current TOP and
assign its duties and functions to the Urban Parks and Forestry Board.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Commission of the City of
Bozeman, Montana, that:
SECTION 1: DISBANDING OF BTAB, RPAB, TOP, AND THE CEMETERY BOARD
The Bozeman City Commission hereby disbands the BTAB, RPAB, TOP, and Cemetery Boards
effective at 11:59 PM on November 30, 2021 and in doing so hereby recognizes Ordinance 2085
will supersede Ordinance No. 1364 (April 12, 1993) for TAB, Ordinance No. 1993 (Dec. 18, 2017)
for RPAB, and Ordinance 1857 for TOP, and Ordinances establishing the Cemetery Board.
Effective 11:59 PM November 30, 2021, the appointment and terms of all current members of the
BTAB, RPAB, TOP, and Cemetery Boards shall terminate.
SECTION 2: CREATION AND PURPOSE
OF THE URBAN PARKS AND FORESTRY BOARD.
The Bozeman City Commission hereby creates and establishes the Urban Parks and Forestry Board
effective beginning December 1, 2021. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will assume all duties
current held by the RPAB, BTAB, TOP, and Cemetery Board. The Urban Parks and Forestry
Board will promote the use of Bozeman’s trails, open spaces, and parks not only for improving an
individual’s physical and psychological health, but also as a tool to strengthen and foster the
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Resolution 5328 Page 3 of 6
wellbeing of the community-at-large through promoting an outdoor culture and lifestyle. The
Urban Parks and Forestry Board provides advisory recommendations to the City Commission, and
if requested by the City Manager to the City Manager, on issues pertaining to the City’s urban park
system, Sunset Hills Cemetery, and the City’s urban forest. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board
will encourage policies and programs that:
1. Promote the enhancement, preservation, and acquisition of greenspaces and public
lands;
2. Cultivate and foster park systems and environments that break down barriers to
participation in outdoor recreation;
3. Encourage the promotion of urban parks and forests;
4. Provide recommendations about the City cemetery; and.
5. Consider principles of sustainability and the Bozeman Action Plan in its policy
recommendations.
SECTION 3: FOCUS AREAS OF THE URBAN PARKS AND FORESTRY BOARD.
The following areas of focus will be subsumed by the Urban Parks and Forestry Board:
1. Organize the annual Arbor Day Program;
2. Review reports pertaining to activity in Bozeman’s urban forests;
3. Assess the equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails, with an emphasis on
traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address identified
issues of disparity;
4. Evaluate the City’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan from drafting
through adoption; and
5. Provide recommendations, when requested, about the City’s Sunset Hills Cemetery.
SECTION 4: POWERS/DUTIES, MEMBERS/COMPOSITION,
AND ORGANIZATION OF THE URBAN PARKS AND FORESTRY BOARD
1. Powers and Duties. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board is authorized to exercise the
following powers and duties:
A. Advise the City Commission and City Manager, when requested, as provided in
Sections 2 and 3 of this Resolution.
B. Abide by the Rules of Procedure, as set forth in a resolution to be approved by the
City Commission, for the Board’s operation and conduct of business.
C. The Board may have such other duties and responsibilities as the City Commission
or City Manager, from time to time, may direct.
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Resolution 5328 Page 4 of 6
D. The actions of the Board are advisory only, do not constitute policy of the City, and
are not binding upon the City Commission or the City Manager. The City Commission or
City Manager may adopt all or any part of any recommendation of the Board.
2. Members: Appointments and Terms.
A. The City Commission will make all appointments to the Urban Parks and Forestry
Board.
B. The Board will consist of seven members. A quorum will consist of a majority of
all members.
C. Board Members may serve no more than (2) two terms. For the initial terms of
members, three members will be appointed to a three-year term and four members
will be appointed to a two-year term. Upon the expiration of the initial term and
thereafter, all members will be appointed to a two-year term.
D. Board Members must be at least 18 years old and be residents of the City.
F. Board Members will not receive compensation for their service. Board members
are entitled to previously authorized expenses, including travel expenses, incurred
during the discharge of duties.
G. Board Members serve at the pleasure of the Commission and may be removed by
a majority vote of the Commission for any reason.
3. Office of Agency; Staff Support. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will maintain its
records in the office of the City department designated by the City Manager to maintain
the records of the Board. The City Manager may assign one or more staff to assist the Board
in its duties and functions. The City Manager may also designate one or more staff to serve
as the liaison to the Board. The City Manager may authorize the assigned Staff Liaison, in
consultation with the Board Chair and Commission Liaison, to develop and approve agenda
items for the Board’s consideration and assist the Board in all of its functions.
4. Meetings. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board meetings must be open to the public as
provided for in Montana law. Meetings must be held on a regular basis as necessary and
must be in the Bozeman City Commission room unless such room is unavailable or not
sufficient for the nature of the meeting. The Board must comply with and is subject to all
requirements and City policies related to open meetings and public participation and
engagement.
4. Ethics and High Performing Boards. All Urban Parks and Forestry Board activities and
its appointed members must comply with, and are subject to, the State of Montana and the
City Code of Ethics. In addition, the Board and its members must comply with and are
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Resolution 5328 Page 5 of 6
subject to City policies related to the performance, behavior, and procedures of City boards,
as established by the City Commission or City Manager.
5. Public Information. All written and electronic information created by the Board or its
members in conducting its duties constitutes public information and is subject to disclosure
pursuant to Montana law.
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Resolution 5328 Page 6 of 6
PASSED, ADOPTED, AND APPROVED by the City Commission of the City of Bozeman,
Montana, at a regular session thereof held on the 10th day of August, 2021.
____________________________________
CYNTHIA L. ANDRUS
Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
MIKE MAAS
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________
GREG SULLIVAN
City Attorney
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Urban, Parks and Forestry Board Work Plan 2026-2027
Focus Area 1: Organize the annual Arbor Day Program
Work Plan Item 1A: Contribute capacity to Annual Arbor Day Program
Resolution 5328 adopts the Urban Parks and Forestry Board (UPF Board) focus area of organizing
the annual Arbor Day program. To contribute capacity to the Annual Arbor Day Program the Board
recommends aligning an annual work plan item. The site selections shall be voted on by the Board.
The Forestry Division will take the lead on training board members to properly explain all the details
of successful planting to the public. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide support and
training throughout this planting during the Arbor Day Event.
Focus Area 2: Review Reports Pertaining to Activity in Bozeman’s Urban Forests
Work Plan Item 2A: Update the Urban Forest Management Plan
Resolution 5328 adopts the Urban Parks and Forestry Board focus area of reviewing reports
pertaining to Bozeman’s urban forests. As such the UPF Board will participate in the drafting of the
2026 Urban Forest Management Plan. The City of Bozeman last completed its Urban Forest
Management Plan (UFMP) in 2016. This plan is a comprehensive review of Bozeman’s urban forest
and how we can fully realize the benefits of our trees. The UFMP explains the many benefits trees
provide for our community and provides a strategy for management and planning for the future. As
the city continues to grow, healthy trees will become an increasingly important part of our
community. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide review, input, and amendments
throughout the update.
Focus Area 3: Assess the equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails with an
emphasis on traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address
identified issues of disparity.
Work Plan Item 3A: PRAT Implementation / Anchor Routes / Community Grant Program
Resolution 5328 adopts assessing equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails, with an
emphasis on traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address identified
issues of disparity. As such the UPF Board work plan for 2026/2027 includes the development of
additional pathway and trail routes, and further developing a funded grant program, as recommended in
the recently updated Parks, Recreation, and Active Transportation (PRAT) Plan. The plan identifies a
vision and realistic, actionable goals for the City’s most valued places – its parks, trails, and recreation
facilities. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide feedback and amendments throughout
the update.
Focus Area 4: Evaluate the City’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan from Drafting
through Adoption
Work Plan Item 4A: Create a UDC update package utilizing PRAT Plan Recommendations
Resolution 5328 adopts evaluating the City’s parks, recreation, open space and trails (PROST) plan from
drafting through adoption. The PRAT plan (formally PROST) identifies a vision and realistic, actionable
goals for the City’s most valued places – its parks, trails, and recreation facilities. As such the UPF
Board recommends and has adopted utilizing recommendations from the PRAT to create a package
19
2
of Unified Development Code (UDC) updates as related to parks, recreation, and trails for City
Commission approval and adoption into the UDC. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide
feedback and amendments throughout the update.
Focus Area 5: Provide recommendations, when requested, about the City’s Sunset Hills
Cemetery
Work Plan Item 5A: Bi-annual Staff Update about Sunset Hills Cemetery and provide recommendations as needed
Resolution 5328 adopts that the UPF Board will provide recommendations, when requested, about the
City’s Sunset Hills Cemetery. The 73-acre Sunset Hills Cemetery, the only City owned and maintained
cemetery, is a virtual arboretum of stately pine, fir, spruce, ash, maple, cedar and various ornamental trees.
The cemetery currently contains over 16,000 burial sites with nine dedicated affiliation areas and room for
expansion. The Urban Parks and Forestry Board will provide feedback during the updates.
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3
URBAN PARKS & FORESTRY ADVISORY BOARD WORK PLAN 2026-2027
Focus Area 1: Organize the Annual Arbor Day Program
WP Item Description: Strategic Plan
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Contribute
capacity to
Annual Arbor Day
Program
Sustainable
Environment
Up to 3 meetings
and
one volunteer
day/year
moderate December
through April
Budgeted in Annual
Forestry Div. Budget
Focus Area 2: Review reports pertaining to activity in Bozeman’s urban forests
WP Item Description: Strategic Plan
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Update Urban
Forest
Management Plan
Sustainable
Environment
Up to 4
meetings/year
substantial Years 1 Budgeted in Annual
Forestry Div. Budget
Focus Area 3: Assess the equity distribution of access to urban parks and trails, with an
emphasis on traditionally underserved communities and neighborhoods, and address
identified issues of disparity.
WP Item Description: Strategic Plan
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. PRAT
Implementation:
-Anchor Routes
-Cash in lieu grant
program
Safe, Welcoming
Community
Up to 5
meetings/year
substantial
Year 1 and
2
P&TD
Focus Area 4: Evaluate the City’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan from drafting
through adoption
WP Item Description: Strategic Plan
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Create a UDC
update
package
utilizing PRAT
plan
recommendati
ons
Well Planned City
Up to 4
meetings/year
substantial
Year 1
P&TD
Focus Area 5: Provide recommendations, when requested, about the City’s Sunset Hills
Cemetery
21
4
WP Item Description: Strategic Plan
Connection:
Board Time
Commitment:
Staff Time
Commitment:
Schedule:
Budget Impact:
A. Bi-annual staff
update about
Sunset Hills
Cemetery and
provide
recommendations
as needed
Well Planned City
Sustainable
Environment
2 Meetings / year
and as needed
As needed
As needed
years 1 and 2
None
22
5
23
2026-2027 Bozeman City Commission Priorities
FINAL
The City Commission’s priorities represent broad, high-level goals that guide the community’s
long-term vision and policy direction. These priorities set the “what” and “why”—the
outcomes we aim to achieve and the values that shape our decisions. Specific actions we take
to further the priorities will be included in workplans developed for each initiative.
Advance Bozeman as a safe and welcoming place for all.
a. Ensure city policies, practices, and services foster a community where all people feel safe,
respected, and able to participate fully in community life – and identify and address
service gaps when they arise.
b. Ensure appropriate funding and staffing for police, fire, and emergency response
services, and support coordinated responses to behavioral-health and crisis situations.
c. Work with the school district and other partners to ensure Bozeman remains a
welcoming place.
d. Advance multimodal transportation improvements from Safe Streets for Everyone (SAFE)
and Urban Transportation District (UTD) and explore funding opportunities.
Engage meaningfully with the community.
a. Strengthen city advisory board efficacy to ensure alignment with community goals.
b. Strengthen the relationship with Montana State University.
c. Cultivate public/private partnerships and collaboration.
d. Review the city’s strategic plan to ensure it reflects current community goals.
e. Leverage evidence-based survey methodologies to understand community attitudes.
Bridge the affordability gap.
a. Improve housing access through a variety of programs and strategies.
b. Review and revise the affordable housing ordinance.
c. Streamline the development review process to eliminate unnecessary steps that add cost
and delay, while maintaining quality and compliance.
d. Support efforts to improve living wage opportunities in Bozeman.
e. Support efforts to improve access to childcare.
Protect Bozeman’s heritage, neighborhoods, and natural environment.
a. Complete the city’s landmark, historic preservation and Neighborhood Conservation
Overlay District (NCOD); Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP); Urban Forest
Management Plan; and other neighborhood/environmental plans and initiatives.
b. Make necessary edits/revisions to the Unified Development Code (UDC) and Zone Map
for clarity and efficacy.
c. Support efforts for long term watershed health.
24
Memorandum
REPORT TO:Urban Parks and Forestry Board
FROM:Mitch Overton, Director of Parks and Recreation
Alex Nordquest, Forestry Division Manager
SUBJECT:Work Session: Review and Discuss Urban Forest Management Plan - Draft
Outline
MEETING DATE:April 23, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Review and Discuss Urban Forest Management Plan - Draft Outline
STRATEGIC PLAN:6.5 Parks, Trails & Open Space: Support the maintenance and expansion of
an interconnected system of parks, trails and open spaces.
BACKGROUND:The City of Bozeman is currently developing an updated Urban Forest
Management Plan (UFMP), to replace the existing 2016 document. The
Urban Parks & Forestry Board recently adopted this project's Community
Engagement Plan, which details major milestones throughout the year as the
plan develops with input from the Board, relevant city staff, and the
community at large.
A significant component of plan development includes Work Sessions with
the Urban Parks & Forestry Board, to discuss and review key themes of the
project's scope. For this meeting, a draft outline of the overall plan has been
prepared by the consulting team from DJ&A and PlanIT Geo. This Work
Session allows for advisory comments, discussion, and review of the overall
structure for the finished product, ensuring we have adequately accounted
for major considerations impacting Bozeman's urban forest.
Major scope items include:
1) Tree Infrastructure and Management: Analysis and recommendations
regarding tree inventory characteristics, canopy cover goals, staffing and
equipment levels, contract budgeting, and related areas.
2) Planning and Development: Evaluation and guidance on integration with
other City departments, acceptance of contract tree installations,
establishment of a heritage tree program, review of tree protection zones,
assessment of private property trees removed by
construction/development, and code recommendations.
3) Community Engagement: Offer strategies to strengthen volunteer
initiatives, address public concerns, and expand community education and
outreach efforts.
25
4) Insect, Disease, and Disaster Preparedness: Advise on preparation for
Emerald Ash Borer and other adaptations to climate change impacts.
Future Topics for Board Work Sessions:
a) Review public survey feedback and preliminary data (June 25th)
b) Review Board feedback on Preliminary Draft UFMP (July 23rd)
c) Review updates based on public comments: Draft UFMP to Final UFMP
prior to City Commission review (September 24th)
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:Additional Work Sessions are scheduled to address any Unresolved Issues.
ALTERNATIVES:As suggested by the Urban Parks & Forestry Board.
FISCAL EFFECTS:The Urban Forest Management Plan is a CIP item allocated within the FY26
Forestry Division budget. Carryover into the FY27 budget year will occur, as
the consultant is billing on a monthly basis throughout plan development.
Attachments:
UFMP Outline Draft.docx
Report compiled on: April 14, 2026
26
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 i
COVER PAGE
27
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
28
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary ................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 1
Purpose, Priorities, and Process ............................................................................................. 1
Key Findings........................................................................................................................... 1
Key Recommendations .......................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 2
Bozeman History and People ................................................................................................. 2
Process and Plan Development.............................................................................................. 2
Climate and Environment ....................................................................................................... 2
Population Dynamics .............................................................................................................. 2
Value of the Urban Forest ....................................................................................................... 2
Challenges Facing Bozeman’s Urban Forest .......................................................................... 2
Organization of Plan .................................................................................................................. 2
Goals of Plan ............................................................................................................................. 2
Why Urban Trees? ..................................................................................................................... 3
Quality of Life ......................................................................................................................... 3
Environmental Benefits ........................................................................................................... 3
Economic Value ..................................................................................................................... 3
Bozeman’s Urban Forest ........................................................................................................... 3
Tree Infrastructure .................................................................................................................. 3
Tree Inventory Overview ........................................................................................................ 3
Structure and Composition of Inventoried Trees ..................................................................... 3
Public Inventoried Tree Population ......................................................................................... 3
Tree Infrastructure Recommendations and Expected Outcomes ............................................ 4
Current Conditions of the Citywide Urban Forest .................................................................... 4
Management of Bozeman’s Urban Forest .................................................................................. 4
Current Tree Management ..................................................................................................... 4
Stakeholder Feedback on Current Conditions ........................................................................ 5
Development and Land Use Changes .................................................................................... 5
Threats to the Urban Forest .................................................................................................... 5
Urban Forest Audit ................................................................................................................. 6
Vision for the Future ................................................................................................................... 6
Goals, Strategies, and Actions ............................................................................................... 6
29
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 iv
Guiding Principles .................................................................................................................. 6
Canopy Cover Goals .............................................................................................................. 6
Goal Framework ..................................................................................................................... 6
Implementation .......................................................................................................................... 6
Challenges and Recommendations ........................................................................................ 6
Assessing Progress ................................................................................................................... 7
Benchmark Values ................................................................................................................. 7
Report and Revise .................................................................................................................. 7
Management of Urban Forest Recommendations .................................................................. 7
Conclusions ............................................................................................................................... 7
References ................................................................................................................................ 7
Appendix A: Canopy Goals and Planting Targets .................................................................... A-1
Appendix B: 2026 Urban Forest Audit Results ........................................................................ B-1
Appendix C: Resources .......................................................................................................... C-1
30
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
[summary]
PURPOSE, PRIORITIES, AND PROCESS
[summary]
KEY FINDINGS
[summary]
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS
[summary]
31
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 2
INTRODUCTION
Introduction to Bozeman as a setting, the process for updating the UFMP, and why urban
forestry is an important focus for the City.
BOZEMAN HISTORY AND PEOPLE
[text]
PROCESS AND PLAN DEVELOPMENT
[text]
MISSION STATEMENT
From the 2016 UFMP: The City of Bozeman is committed to providing a healthy, safe, and
aesthetically pleasing community forest for its residents and visitors. By maintaining, managing,
and preserving its trees, the City raises its citizens’ standard of living and maximizes the
benefits offered by its urban forest.
VISION STATEMENT
From the 2016 UFMP: Bozeman’s community forest is an essential component of municipal
infrastructure, one that creates efficiencies and long-term solutions by achieving a sustainable
community. The community forest is cared for by the City and its people, creating a high quality
of life, a healthier citizenry, and making it a leader of towns in the Mountain West.
CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT
[text]
POPULATION DYNAMICS
[text]
VALUE OF THE URBAN FOREST
[text]
CHALLENGES FACING BOZEMAN’S URBAN FOREST
Discussion of City population growth, community development, climate change, internal City
resources vs. external volunteer and/or public resources, and community perception of the
urban forest and desired management practices.
ORGANIZATION OF PLAN
Brief overview of UFMP organization, how it differs from the 2016 UFMP, and additional
resources and management objectives identified for the development and care of the urban
forest into the future.
Discuss management components, as applicable.
GOALS OF PLAN
Review of 2016 UFMP goals and establishment of updated UFMP goals.
32
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 3
WHY URBAN TREES?
Summary of the value and benefits of urban trees, as identified by the following subsections
with a focus on Bozeman statistics, as applicable.
QUALITY OF LIFE
[text]
PUBLIC HEALTH
[text]
SOCIAL BENEFITS
[text]
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
[text]
HYDROLOGY
[text]
ENVIRONMENTAL ENERGY SAVINGS
[text]
AIR QUALITY
[text]
ECONOMIC VALUE
[text]
BOZEMAN’S URBAN FOREST
Existing conditions of Bozeman’s urban forest.
TREE INFRASTRUCTURE
[text]
TREE INVENTORY OVERVIEW
[text]
STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION OF INVENTORIED TREES
[text]
PUBLIC INVENTORIED TREE POPULATION
[text]
SPECIES DIVERSITY
[text]
SIZE AND RELATIVE AGE DISTRIBUTION
[text]
CONDITION
[text]
33
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 4
RELATIVE PERFORMANCE INDEX
[text]
OBSERVATIONS AND DEFECTS
[text]
MAINTENANCE NEEDS
[text]
TREE INFRASTRUCTURE RECOMMENDATIONS AND EXPECTED
OUTCOMES
[text]
CURRENT CONDITIONS OF THE CITYWIDE URBAN FOREST
[text]
TREE CANOPY COVER
[text]
TREE CANOPY EQUITY
[text]
MANAGEMENT OF BOZEMAN’S URBAN FOREST
Detailed current and projected management needs for Bozeman’s urban forest. Incorporation of
focus issues for the City like budget, staffing, contracting options, disaster preparedness, and
more.
CURRENT TREE MANAGEMENT
[text]
PROGRAMS FOR MANAGING BOZMAN’S TREES
[text]
BUDGET AND FUNDING
[text]
STAFFING AND EQUIPMENT
[text]
PUBLIC TREE MAINTENANCE AND PLANTING
[text]
Bozeman School District (Planting Partnership)
Holdover from 2016 UFMP.
Partnering with Montana State University
Holdover from 2016 UFMP.
Heritage Tree Program
[text]
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Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 5
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND EDUCATION
[text]
TREE-RELATED PLANS AND REGULATIONS IN BOZEMAN
[text]
BENCHMARKING EXERCISE
[text]
STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK ON CURRENT CONDITIONS
[text]
INTERNAL STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK
Summary of internal City feedback on processes for tree maintenance, tree integration for
planning and development, staffing and budget, and more.
EXTERNAL STAKEHOLDER AND COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
Summary of comments and feedback provided by the public throughout the plan update
process. The subsections below are examples of potential feedback areas.
Native Tree Species
[text]
Tree Management on Private Property
[text]
Construction and Development
[text]
DEVELOPMENT AND LAND USE CHANGES
[text]
ALTERED SOILS
[text]
COMPETITION FOR SPACE
[text]
MANAGING IMPACTS TO TREES
[text]
THREATS TO THE URBAN FOREST
Summary of current and projected threats to Bozeman’s urban forest.
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS
[text]
URBAN TREE PESTS AND DISEASES
[text]
INVASIVE TREE SPECIES
[text]
35
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 6
URBAN HEAT
[text]
CHANGES IN PLANT COMMUNITIES
[text]
WILDFIRE RISK
[text]
SEVERE WEATHER
[text]
URBAN FOREST AUDIT
[text]
AUDIT PROCESS FOR BOZEMAN
[text]
BOZEMAN’S AUDIT SCORE
[text]
INTERPRETING THE URBAN FOREST AUDIT SCORE
[text]
VISION FOR THE FUTURE
[text]
GOALS, STRATEGIES, AND ACTIONS
[text]
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
[text]
CANOPY COVER GOALS
[text]
GOAL FRAMEWORK
[text]
IMPLEMENTATION
[text]
CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
[text]
CITY CODE AND ORDINANCES
[text]
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT
[text]
36
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 7
TREE MANAGEMENT AND PRIORITIZATION FRAMEWORK
[text]
PESTS AND DISEASES
[text]
STAFFING AND RESOURCES
[text]
IMPROVED COORDINATION
[text]
STRENGTHENING AND ESTABLISHING PARTNERSHIPS
[text]
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
[text]
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
[text]
ASSESSING PROGRESS
[text]
BENCHMARK VALUES
[text]
REPORT AND REVISE
[text]
MANAGEMENT OF URBAN FOREST RECOMMENDATIONS
[text]
CONCLUSIONS
[text]
REFERENCES
[insert references]
37
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 A-1
APPENDIX A: CANOPY GOALS AND PLANTING TARGETS
38
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 B-1
APPENDIX B: 2026 URBAN FOREST AUDIT RESULTS
39
Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan 2026 C-1
APPENDIX C: RESOURCES
40
Memorandum
REPORT TO:Urban Parks and Forestry Board
FROM:Mitch Overton, Director of Parks and Recreation
Anhad Bajwa, Administrative Assistant II
SUBJECT:Director Update
MEETING DATE:April 23, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Administration
RECOMMENDATION:Director Update if Time Allows. No Action. Informational Only.
STRATEGIC PLAN:6.5 Parks, Trails & Open Space: Support the maintenance and expansion of
an interconnected system of parks, trails and open spaces.
BACKGROUND:When time on the monthly agenda allows, the Director may give general
Departmental updates to the Board for informational and educational
purposes.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:none
ALTERNATIVES:n/a
FISCAL EFFECTS:none
Report compiled on: April 17, 2026
41