Talkin’ Trees with Our City Forester

On the latest Behind the Springs podcast, we sat down with City Forester Matt Puckett to talk about the trees that shape our community, the work that goes into caring for them, and why they matter more than most people think.

A Passion for Trees (and the Outdoors)

Matt didn't just stumble into Forestry; he has been an outdoors enthusiast since childhood.

"I actually got interested in forestry because somebody told me you could have a job to get paid to climb trees," he said. "And I've just fallen in love with the industry ever since."

Now, with more than 15 years of experience, Matt leads the City's Forestry team, managing everything from tree planting to tree removal after storms. It's a big job, especially when you consider the scale.

Colorado Springs is home to more than 130,000 public street trees and another 20,000 trees in parks.

What It Takes to Care for an Urban Forest

When most people hear the word "forest," they think of mountains or the wilderness. But in reality, a forest exists right here in the City - and it takes constant care.

Matt and his team handle everything from pruning requests to treating diseases.

"That's just the maintenance and how we care for our urban forest," he said. "You have to be a tree nerd to be in this role."

That passion shines through the many healthy trees that fill our parks and line our streets.

More Than Just Shade

Trees do a lot more than make neighborhoods look nice.

"The amount of benefits that trees bring to our City - it's astronomical," Matt said.

From improving air quality to increasing property values, trees play a role in both environmental health and economic vitality. Studies even connect tree canopy to lower crime rates, better mental health, and longer lifespans.

A City That Leads by Example

Colorado Springs has taken forestry seriously for decades. In fact, the City has been recognized as a Tree City USA community for 49 years.

"We outcompete everyone else," Matt said with a smile. "Next year is our 50th celebration, so we're going to have to do something big."

These recognitions reflect consistent investment in planting, maintenance, and long-term planning for the City's urban forest.

Growing Shade for the Future

One of the newest efforts to expand the City's tree canopy is the Grow Shade Together program, a grant-funded initiative focused on neighborhoods in the southeast region with lower tree coverage.

Qualifying residents can apply to receive free trees to plant on their property.

Simple Ways Residents Can Help

When it comes to keeping trees healthy, Matt said one of the simplest and most effective steps is using organic mulch.

"What mulch does is it helps retain the soil moisture," he explained. "And then it gives nutrients back into the soil."

And if you ever notice a damaged or hazardous tree, please report it on the GoCOS app.

"Our citizens are the voice of our urban forest sometimes," Matt said.

At its core, planting and caring for trees is about thinking beyond today. It's a simple act with lasting impact.

Learn More

If you're interested in planting a tree, caring for one, or learning more about available programs, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/forestry for resources, applications and tips.

Trees are a quiet but powerful part of our City's story. Thanks to our dedicated Forestry staff and engaged residents, that story is still growing.