Keeping Us Shady

Spring is bringing the trees in Sacramento to their most robust, reminding us all why we love this area. No matter where you are, in the city, suburbs, or foothills, the trees bring a bit of Mother Nature into our lives, and with the sudden surge in temperatures, the shade isn’t too bad either.

Last year, Sacramento’s urban tree canopy was rated among the nation’s top ten urban forests in America (according to the non-profit organization American Forests). The Sacramento Tree Foundation aims to live up to that distinction for generations to come.

Founded in 1982, the Foundation has been promoting the health, new planting and education of residents about one of our most precious resources. They offer expertise, training, tools, and advice in order to empower the community to plant, protect and learn about trees. Their list of services (and informational tidbits) is impressive. What we take for granted, they nurture and cultivate.

While Arbor Day is celebrated in late April, locals and tree lovers everywhere can take advantage of the Foundation’s events all year round. Services and programs include Free Shade Tree Program; Trees for Parks, Schools and Streets; Trees for Open Spaces; and Seedling Growing Program.

Events educate and inspire – they include the Capitol Park Tree Tour May 10; Mulch Madness Event at the Rose Garden May 13; Tree Tour of McKinley Park May 19; Tree Care and Beer Garden May 22; and Southside Park Tree Tour. Many of the events are recurring. www.sactree.com