Tree canopy cover report

Canopy cover describes the area covered by a tree or shrub when viewed from above. This includes the leaves, branches and stems.

Assessing the spatial extent of districts, and establishing a baseline dataset is an important step in the management of our natural environment. This information can assist our planners, policy makers, foresters and communities to recognise the benefits provided by green infrastructure. It can also display its importance in community planning, sustainability and resilience. This canopy cover report for Kent and Medway may be used to target resources to the areas that most need them.

This study estimates tree canopy cover in Kent’s districts and Medway using BlueSky data and the i-Tree analysis and assessment tool. Estimates of canopy cover for each ward, as well as each district’s total were calculated. The results provide a snapshot of current tree canopy cover and a baseline for comparison with future surveys.