Calling All Tree Huggers, Woodinville's Tree Board Needs Volunteers

The City of Woodinville is seeking volunteers to serve on the Tree Board. Applications will be accepted until February 29, 2012.

So, what is The Tree Board, you may be asking? It is the city’s group of resident volunteers and staff that meet to plan and protect the city’s tree canopy, according to staff liaison, Hal Hart.

Specifically, the board is tasked with upholding the City's Urban Forestry Plan adopted in 1998. This program develops standards for the maintenance and management of Woodinville's urban forest to ensure preservation of the Woodinville's northwest woodland character, according to the Tree Board’s website. Activities include:

• Updating and implementing the Community Urban Forestry Plan and regulations to protect and preserve the community's urban forest
• Advising City staff and the City Council on planning, planting, inspecting, and maintenance of public trees
• Providing technical advice to property owners and developers regarding tree planting, care and preservation
• Hosting an annual Arbor Day Celebration
• Sponsoring the Heritage Tree Program

Woodinville is a " Tree City USA " as designated by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

The five-member board makes policy recommendations regarding tree related issues such as tree preservation, planting and care to the city council. In addition to policy guidance, the board plans community education events and activities including Arbor Day, held annually in April. Hart said outreach and education will be a focus of the board in 2012.

Since its inception in 1995, the board has spearheaded following programs and regulations, and preservation:

• Heritage Tree Program
• Tree Tribute Program
• Community Urban Forestry Plan
• Tree Retention and Protection Regulation

To volunteer for the board, check the city's website here.