Episode 65 - Melissa Custic is the Operations Manager for the Chicago Region Trees Initiative.

Melissa Custic manages the Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI). The CRTI is a collaboration of regional partners working together to improve the health, diversity, and equity of trees in the seven-county Chicago Region. Melissa works closely with colleagues of partner institutions to increase canopy cover, reduce the presence of invasive species, and works to increase the preservation of oak ecosystems in the Chicago Region. She has developed several resources and training programs aimed at improving tree selection, planting, and care, as well as targeting invasive woody removal and replacement. Melissa’s professional interests include urban forestry, urban ecology, environmental justice, tree care, climate change, and soil ecology. Melissa is also an ISA-certified arborist.