City Trees

4 CityTREES President's Message Earl Eutsler Executive Director's Message Leslie Berckes It's the beginning of a new year; that means it's time to set resolutions and inten- tions for the year. I know, I know—often a fraught pro- cess. But hope springs eternal, and I think it's always good to have your eye on the thing that is going to guide you. So, what's that for me? Sure, there are some personal things (read and work on my hobbies more), but professionally, I want to grow the membership base of SMA and ensure people are find- ing value in their membership. They say that a goal without a plan is just a dream. In 2023, I plan to: • Ask for help. Maybe a strange one to start with, but membership of SMA won't grow without you. Will you help us grow the membership of SMA by letting one or two people know about this awesome group of people? You are our best ambassadors for helping grow the network of urban foresters. • Work with the SMA Board on a strategic plan- ning process in the first quarter of the year. A new strategic plan will allow us to be laser-focused on specific targets. This strategic planning process will be informed by members, stakeholders, and supporters. Ultimately, the plan will provide clear guidance on how we can all grow the profession of urban forestry so that you, the SMA members, feel more supported, informed, connected, and confident. • Reach out to at least three SMA-Member city foresters each month. Your on-the-ground experi- ence is invaluable as the Board and I learn how best to serve you. I want to hear what's going on in your community and region. What are your biggest chal- lenges and opportunities? What's your long-term view for growing a vibrant urban forest? Haven't heard from me, but want to chat? Call or email at any time! There we have it. My 2023 intention for SMA and you. Hold me to it next time we talk! Happy New Year, SMA! Seattle's Carkeek Park, with its backdrop of Mount Constance rising from the Olympic Peninsula, and Chum Salmon running in Piper's Creek were the perfect setting for education and fellowship among our enthusiastic member- ship. I want to recognize everyone who worked so hard to make our 58 th Annual SMA International Conference and Trade Show an amazing event. We owe a debt of gratitude to the City of Seattle for helping facilitate our field tour and other events. Particular thanks to Deputy Mayor Greg Wong for his opening remarks, and to Nolan Rundquist for organizing field tours and helping secure event space; we were fortunate to have such gracious hosts! Thanks also to Walt Warriner for his generous support of the MFI Reunion, which always succeeds in bringing MFI Grads back together, and to Steve Harris for helping lead the conference planning committee. I look forward to seeing all of you in Washington, DC for the 59th SMA Conference and Trade Show, held in conjunction with the 2 nd World Forum on Urban Forests, October 16 th , 2023. In 2023, the SMA Board and I are committed to ensuring your membership in the Society is rewarding and valu- able. We are focused on engaging those who have recent- ly joined and better retaining existing members. The membership committee is actively exploring membership data to identify trends in retention, ways to reconnect with lapsed members, and generally improve the mem- ber experience. To this end, know that I, our Executive Director Leslie Berckes, and the entire SMA Board want to hear from membership. We welcome your feedback. Lastly, I would like to thank members who took the time to review and vote on SMA's proposed bylaw revi- sions. Just like trees, organizations require ongoing maintenance to ensure the maximum benefit. These changes are another step in bringing our organiza- tion into better alignment with non-profit standards and best practices. Thank you for taking the time to review the proposed changes and cast your vote!

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