About Us
The City of Charlotte’s Landscape Management team is dedicated to protecting, caring for, and growing Charlotte's tree canopy and green spaces. Through sustainable practices, community partnerships and public engagement, we work to improve the health and beauty of the city’s trees while promoting environmental stewardship and community wellness. From planting and maintaining street trees to educating residents on proper tree care, our efforts contribute to a vibrant, resilient, and greener Charlotte for generations to come.
The Tree Management Program is responsible for monitoring and maintaining more than 200,000 trees along city streets and on city properties, and we plant an average of 800 trees every year. We also provide educational resources for the community.
Our Team
Laurie Reid, City Arborist
704-336-5753
laurie.reiddukes@charlottenc.gov
Laurie Reid is the City Arborist for Charlotte’s Landscape Management Division, where she oversees right-of-way tree programs, enforces the city’s tree ordinance and is the public-facing voice for the division. With a background in entomology and forestry, Laurie brings more than two decades of experience to her role, blending scientific precision with a passion for connecting people to the natural world.
Prior to joining the City of Charlotte in 2014, Laurie served as the Forest Health Program Manager for the South Carolina Forestry Commission and began her career as an environmental educator. She holds a B.S. and M.S. in Entomology from Clemson University and is an ISA-Certified Arborist with Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). With a natural love for bugs and a talent for connecting with the public, Laurie supports community education through programs like "Be a Tree Detective" and Charlotte’s annual Arbor Day event, "Treetops & Tombstones: Charlotte's Super Natural Arboretum."
When she’s not teaching tree care or busting insect myths, Laurie enjoys hiking, camping and gardening. Her front yard is a thriving pollinator habitat filled with more than 300 native plants. And yes, she names her trees.
Vicki Aguilar, Assistant City Arborist
980-242-1192
vicki.aguilar@charlottenc.gov
Vicki Aguilar is a Certified Arborist, Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAC), NC Licensed Landscape Contractor and certified in SCM (Stormwater Control Measure) inspection and maintenance. As Assistant City Arborist for Charlotte’s Landscape Management, she oversees the neighborhood tree planting program, tree care projects, outreach and education programing, and pollinator garden initiatives that help shape and sustain Charlotte’s urban green spaces.
With more than 20 years in the green industry, Vicki’s passion for plants started early, inspired by her grandmother’s orchard and vegetable garden. Her career journey has taken her from landscape design and plant care to a broader focus on urban ecology and sustainable landscaping, combining hands-on experience with conservation practices. She is especially passionate about pollinator-friendly landscaping, ensuring Charlotte’s tree canopy remains healthy for generations to come, and educating the public on the benefits of green infrastructure.
Josh Merwin, Tree Maintenance Supervisor
980-293-2584
josh.merwin@charlottenc.gov
Josh Merwin is a Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAC) ISA-Certified Arborist and ISA Tree Worker Climber Specialist with more than 14 years of experience in tree care. As Tree Maintenance Supervisor for Charlotte’s Landscape Management, he oversees tree maintenance operations, storm response and contractor management, ensuring the safety and upkeep of the city’s public spaces.
Like many tree guys, Josh didn’t find tree work—tree work found him. What started as a challenge to become a skilled climber turned into a career that took him from hands-on arborist to citywide operations leader. Recognized for his expertise, Josh is mentioned in the third edition of the Tree Risk Assessment Manual. Outside of work, he’s an ultra-marathoner, mountain bike racer and bow hunter.
Natasha Warren, Program Coordinator
704-336-1478
natasha.warren@charlottenc.gov
Natasha provides general and advanced program support related to communication with the public, tree canopy program management, maintenance operations, Charlotte Tree Advisory Commission and interdepartmental coordination efforts.
Natasha started her career as City Horticulturist and is a North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association Certified Plant Professional, NC licensed landscape contractor and ISA Certified Arborist. Natasha earned a master of business administration and worked in contracting and economic development. A southern Indiana native, Natasha has a great interest in ornamental plants.
Jake Finger, Senior Municipal Arborist Specalist
704-431-2223
jake.finger@charlottenc.gov
Jake Finger is an ISA-Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAC) who spends his days managing Charlotte’s public trees. As Senior Municipal Arborist Specialist, he oversees a tight-knit crew of arborist specialists, handling everything from tree inspections and maintenance to storm response and construction impact assessments. Whether out in the field or coordinating from the office, he works to balance public safety and urban tree health and ensures a well-maintained canopy for future generations.
With more than10 years in tree care and six years with the City of Charlotte, Jake is passionate about efficiency in day-to-day operations, replacing the city’s aging canopy, and making sure Charlotte’s tree management efforts run smoothly. He prefers to work behind the scenes to make things happen, but is always happy to talk about tree care, risk assessment and the science behind maintaining a healthy urban landscape.
When he’s not tending to Charlotte’s trees, Jake enjoys hiking, whitewater rafting, and spending time with his pets—Lola, Maya, and Ogie.