What are the four components of the planning process?

The planning process in a municipal arborist context involves understanding and analyzing different elements that contribute to effective urban forest management. One of the core components is assessing existing resources and conditions, which is encapsulated in the idea of "What do we have?" This component requires a comprehensive inventory and evaluation of the current state, including tree health, species diversity, site conditions, and any existing management practices.

By thoroughly examining these existing factors, arborists can identify potential challenges and opportunities within the urban canopy, allowing for more informed decision-making in the subsequent steps of the planning process. This initial assessment lays the groundwork for setting realistic goals and identifying necessary resources, ultimately guiding how a municipality can improve its tree management strategy. The other components also play vital roles in the planning process, but understanding what is already present is fundamental to building effective future plans.