What is Understory?

At understory, we are growing opportunities by growing trees. Our program is dedicated to the long term survival of the trees that we plant. We fundamentally believe that the success of a future urban canopy rests in the hands of the residents of the very communities we plant in.

Through our workforce development program, we aim to create a network of community advocates focused on the progression of the neighborhoods that they call home. By providing hands-on paid training and education within the field of urban forest management, participants of our program can hope to gain a better understanding of what it takes to activate their communities towards a common goal.

Join the
understory crew

The Understory Work Crew is a hands-on workforce development program of the Chattanooga Tree Project, rooted at green|spaces. This initiative offers the opportunity to grow careers while growing communities through tree planting, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.

Participants gain job skills and personal development training, preparing for careers in tree care and environmental fields.

Applications are closed until June 2027. Keep your eyes on our website and socials for more details.

Meet the understory crew
- Cohort #2 -

This dedicated team has worked tirelessly to plant, water, mulch, prune, and care for the hundreds and hundreds of trees we've planted throughout Chattanooga. While tree planting often gets the spotlight, most of the work happens after a tree goes in the ground.

Through watering during hot summer days, maintaining young trees, engaging with residents, and stewarding Chattanooga's growing urban forest, the Understory Crew helps ensure that the trees we plant today will thrive for generations to come.

Their hard work, commitment, and care have made a lasting impact on neighborhoods across our city, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do.