Linking tree cover change to historical management practices in urban parks

Urban tree canopy (UTC) in parks is shaped by complex interactions between social and ecological processes over decades. To understand UTC change parks, it critical to identify characterize the unique set of that drive long-term change. We sought uncover feedbacks changes a post-industrial city experienced substantial population loss park disinvestment. Our mixed-methods approach involved quantifying spatiotemporal connecting those historical management practices for three Philadelphia, PA (US). delineated using aerial imagery 1959 2018, synthesized information from archival records semi-structured interviews about practices. found gains 1980, due both: (a) budget cuts, mowing cessation, associated unintended forest emergence; (b) purposeful planting reforestation activities. While some were purposeful, others unintentional reflect successional on unmaintained lands. Contrary literature suggesting financial investment would lead gain, we saw declining following an influx new funding post-2000 construction restoration. differing pathways leading convergent outcomes gains. Across goals landscapes had important ramifications UTC. work suggests landscape could benefit improved understanding how impact land cover long-term.