The Committee is composed of 22 voting members, representing the public, various County departments, the County Planning Board and the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission.

The Committee must advise the Executive, Council, Planning Board, and other relevant agencies on forestry policy issues; propose proactive forestry policies, laws and guidelines, and submit an annual report on the Committee’s functions, activities, accomplishments, plans and objectives. The Committee must also recommend a comprehensive approach to urban forestry; advise on a tree inventory; review and comment on policies and programs related to forestry; promote and seek funding for a sustained forestry program; promote and foster a strong sense of community through urban forestry; communicate with other boards, agencies, and community residents about forestry issues; promote volunteerism; and act as a general information resource.

Members serve three year terms without compensation, but are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Meetings are held at the call of the Chair but not less than nine times per year.