Fort Worth, Texas – Fort Worth Park & Recreation has announced a new leader for the care and protection of the city’s trees, naming Hannah Johnson as the new city forester, a role that plays a key part in maintaining public safety, neighborhood quality, and long-term environmental health.
As city forester, Johnson will oversee Fort Worth’s forestry operations, guiding how trees are planted, maintained, and preserved across the city. Her responsibilities include supervising the care of publicly owned trees located in parks, along streets, and on other city property. In certain cases, the Forestry team may also prune privately owned trees when damaged or broken limbs pose a risk to sidewalks, roadways, or other public spaces.
Experience rooted in science and public service
Johnson brings a strong mix of scientific training and hands-on municipal experience to the role. She grew up in western Nebraska and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in agroecology, with a minor in horticulture, from the University of Wyoming. Her early career focused on public service, beginning as a horticulturist for Campbell County, Wyoming, where she spent seven years managing county horticultural programs.
After relocating to Texas, Johnson briefly served as assistant director II for education and programs at the Midland County Public Libraries. She later joined the Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department as a natural scientist supervisor, a role that placed her at the center of the city’s urban forestry efforts.
In that position, Johnson managed daily operations at the Rolling Hills Tree Farm and oversaw several major initiatives, including the Neighborhood Tree Planting Program, the Tree Grant Program, volunteer efforts, and special events focused on environmental education and community involvement. Her work helped expand tree coverage while engaging residents in caring for their local environment.
City leaders said her background made her a natural choice to step into the city forester role.
“Hannah’s experience managing Fort Worth’s tree programs and her strong scientific background make her well suited to lead our urban forestry efforts,” said Joel McElhany, assistant director. “Her work supports everything from neighborhood livability to long-term climate resilience.”
Protecting the city’s tree canopy
As Fort Worth continues to grow, officials say urban forestry has become increasingly important. Trees help cool neighborhoods, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and enhance public spaces. Johnson’s leadership will focus on balancing growth with preservation, while ensuring trees remain healthy and safe for residents.
Fort Worth Park & Recreation encourages residents to learn more about the city’s forestry programs and how tree care supports a safer, greener, and more resilient community.
