🌳 This summer, students in the @clarku_heroprogram took to the streets of Leominster, assessing the health of thousands of trees planted through @massdcr’s Greening the Gateway Cities initiative.

Now in its 26th year, the Human-Environment Regional Observatory (HERO) program wrapped up its latest season with students presenting research findings on DCR’s effort to reduce urban heat islands across Massachusetts. The initiative focuses on increasing tree canopy in densely populated areas to improve air quality, lower energy costs, and create cooler neighborhoods.

Beyond data collection, students rolled up their sleeves to help with tree planting and conducted interviews with Leominster residents, city officials, DCR foresters, and community partners to gather insights on how the program is shaping local experiences and perceptions.

📰 See link in bio to read more about their work.