Planting and Sustaining
We are in the height of planting season and we have been planting and sharing plants for the last several weeks. But, as we plant, we must also protect. Every day trees are being cut for development. Sometimes that is necessary, but far too often, alternatives are not considered. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Simple adjustments to business as usual can help protect more trees; for example, curving sidewalks to go around existing large trees, placing temporary fencing around trees during construction, establishing clearly defined municipal codes that mandate tree protection and replanting for construction projects, and so much more. This is not just an issue in Tacoma. We are witnessing, and have been witnessing, widespread deforestation in this region.
An example of adapting infrastructure to existing trees for preservation.
The forests of the Pacific Northwest are of global concern. The evergreen nature of many of our intact forests allows for carbon sequestration all year long. The remnants of forest that we have throughout Tacoma and throughout the South Sound are still valuable as they are, and not just for those who live next to forests. It may not seem worth fighting for the patch of woods next to a freeway that is being re-zoned or the cluster of trees being cut to make a straight sidewalk, but it is important to care for these forest patches. When forests are protected, they store carbon, reduce temperatures, and reduce flooding and pollution. You have probably heard all these amazing benefits before, but maybe you have started to think that there is nothing that can be done to prevent deforestation. But, there are things we can do to protect the trees and forests of the South Sound.
One of the most critical actions is to make your voice heard and to hold elected representatives accountable. Local council members, both at the city and the county level, are here to represent your interests. Let them know that trees should be protected whenever possible. That might mean having a community advisor board reviewing development plan reviews for the opportunity for tree preservation. Local and state agencies also ask for input on projects; these are great opportunities to let them know that preserving trees along roads and highways are important to you and your community.
There are also tangible actions you can do. If you have the space at home, plant one more tree this year (and if you need help with that, we still have plants to share). You can also help care for the natural spaces near you. Collecting litter that blows into the edge of forests can help let others know that the forests are valued. Parks are always looking for volunteers, and there are many small pockets of forest throughout the city that need some love too. Lastly, be kind to your neighbors, even when they cut down a tree.
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