City Trees is a premier publication focused on urban + community forestry. In each issue, you’ll learn how to best manage the trees in your community and more!
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/143980
a formal tree planting program. One component of the tree planting program is to create several tree nurseries; we own property where this could be possible. Most of our trees are purchased from local and regional nurseries. This has been problematic because it is difficult to acquire the quality of stock and the mix of species we prefer. Because of that, we are considering contract growing with nurseries in the future. What are some specific ways you involve the public? TF: Renton's annual Arbor Day/Earth Day Celebration, the last Saturday in April, involves over 150 volunteers. The Celebration includes receiving Tree City USA awards from the Washington Department of Natural Resources. The public can obtain urban forestry information at this event as well as at other special events held throughout the year. We provide consulting services to Renton residents when they request information about their private trees. This gives the City the opportunity to reach beyond the street for spreading the good word about urban forestry. While this adds to the work load, the good will it generates is invaluable to our program. These are usually face-to-face encounters with a property owner so we are able to explain, diagnose, and prescribe treatments directly to the homeowner or business person and answer other landscape questions they may have about their property. The Community Services Department has a formal volunteer program. Staff coordinates projects with groups and individuals, many of which are related to urban forestry, such as invasive plant removal and restoration plantings in parks and natural areas. In 2012, Arbor Day/Earth Day volunteers planted 67 street trees in the North Renton Neighborhood alongside members of the homeowners association. The residents were able to be involved by selecting the species from three or four choices. Residents and volunteers learned about proper tree planting and maintenance through printed materials. The project was funded in part with a Washington Department of Natural Resources Forestry Assistance Grant with the goal of improving Puget Sound water quality. Volunteers planted street trees in the North Renton Neighborhood for the 2012 Arbor Day Celebration. 16 City Trees