People across the country work together to plant and care for trees, share gardens, remove litter, plan river cleanups, and find other ways to green and care for their communities. These land managers, non-profits, and volunteers build stronger, healthier, and more resilient landscapes. But who are these groups? And how might they work together to boost their impact?

Started by scientists at the USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station, the Stewardship Mapping and Assessment Project (STEW-MAP) pinpoints where known stewardship groups are improving their surroundings. STEW-MAP helps stewards find novel partners and gaps in coverage. The project also recognizes agents of change in vulnerable communities — furthering diversity, equity, and inclusion. To take part in STEW-MAP, a person or group collects data from stewards serving their community.

First applied in New York City in 2007, STEW-MAP has since been realized in communities in many parts of the world. See Project Locations page for more info.