August 11, 2011

Did you know? One of the first things Portland's founders did after incorporating the city in 1851 was plant trees. Chapman and Lownsdale Squares (across the street from City Hall) were formed in 1852, and in 1857 the Park Blocks were planted with hundreds of American elms, adding considerable beauty and shade to downtown.

Today, thousands of street trees and over 10,000 acres of parks and open spaces provide benefits that are central to Portland's livability. They promote clean air and water, cooler streets and homes, and add wildlife habitat and distinctive character to Portland's neighborhoods.

Keeping our urban forest strong is a collective effort. Learning how to properly plant and care for your own trees is the best thing you can do to ensure a healthy future for our urban forest, but there are plenty of other ways you can help.

This Fall, PP&R will offer Neighborhood Tree Steward training, teaching you how to advocate for a healthy urban forest and act as a resource for your community. The hands-on, interactive training includes 7 classes between September 27 and October 29. The course is $45, and group discounts as well as scholarships are available.

Call Autumn Montegna, Urban Forest Outreach Coordinator, at (503) 701-7622 or email her at autumn.montegna@portlandoregon.gov with questions or to register.

Thanks for your help keeping our urban forest healthy!

Photo: Portland's South Park Blocks are home to elms more than 150 years old