Park & Recreation appoints Hannah Johnson as city forester

Fort Worth Park & Recreation has named Hannah Johnson as its new city forester, a role responsible for overseeing the City’s forestry operations and guiding the care, planting and preservation of Fort Worth’s tree canopy.

As city forester, Johnson coordinates and supervises Fort Worth’s forestry operations, including the care and management of publicly owned trees located in parks, along streets and on other City property. The Forestry team may also prune privately owned trees when they pose a risk to public safety, such as damaged or broken limbs that obstruct sidewalks, streets or other public spaces.

Johnson brings a strong background in applied science and municipal operations. 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. She began her career in public service as the horticulturist for Campbell County, Wyoming, where she spent seven years managing horticultural programs before relocating to Texas.

After a brief role as assistant director II for education and programs at the Midland County Public Libraries, Johnson joined the City of Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department as natural scientist supervisor. In that role, she managed daily operations at the Rolling Hills Tree Farm and oversaw the Neighborhood Tree Planting Program, Tree Grant Program, volunteer initiatives and special events.

“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.”

Learn more about Fort Worth’s forestry programs.

Photo: Forester Hannah Johnson brings a strong background in applied science and municipal operations.

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