Improving the Livability and Environment of the City
The Hood River Tree Committee was originally created in 2006 via Ordinance 1923, and is made up of citizen volunteers with a range of relevant experience. The Committee is an advisory board to the city with regard to urban forestry concerns. With our existing climate change emergency and the concerns for the overall environment, the Tree Committee strives to educate the general public, developers, and land managers on the necessity and value of trees for maintaining a quality environment. Trees play a vital role in improving air quality, wildlife habitat, stormwater mitigation, carbon sequestration, noise quieting, cooling from shade, in addition to their providing a visual contrast to the developed urban environment.
Trees in the urban environment are necessary for community livability as they provide essential benefits to the citizens, infrastructure and environment. The entire population of trees in and around a city is known as an urban forest. While each tree contributes benefits, the entire urban forest provides many social and environmental benefits and plays in important role in the livability of our community. To find out more about the many benefits of trees, follow the links, below.
The committee’s activities include organizing an annual Arbor Day tree planting celebration, submitting an annual Tree City USA application, nominating and documenting Heritage Trees, and educating the public on the value and benefits of trees. As defined in Hood River Municipal Code, the Tree Committee also advises the City Manager on a list of approved tree varieties suitable for planting along city streets.
Link(s) to additional information:
Tree Care Tips
The Tree Committee is currently taking a break. For more information, please contact Abigail Elder at a.elder@cityofhoodriver.gov or at 541.387.5252