The Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute (UFEI) was developed by the Natural Resources Management Department faculty to address the increasing need for improved management of the urban forests in California. This website and the discussion group are due in large part to the efforts of Dr. Walter Mark.

The purpose of the institute at Cal Poly is to provide a center for:

1. Applied Research
2. Extension and Technology Transfer
3. Community Service and Outreach Programs assisting landowners and public agencies in improving the management of urban forests.

The scope of UFEI ranges across the full spectrum of forest settings -- from the inner-city forests to remote semi-developed forests. The institute is designed to work in co-operation with other universities, government agencies and even private consulting firms. Project work is accomplished through an interdisciplinary approach with the NRM Department representing the core group of disciplines at Cal Poly. Once fully implemented, the Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute will be an asset not only to Cal Poly, but to all of the communities that utilize this timely new resource.