Urban Oaks: Challenges and Benefits of Reforesting Sacramento

Loren O'Rourke, Sacramento Tree Foundation

Planting native oak species on underutilized urban public lands in Sacramento has a unique set of difficulties. Poor soil quality, lack of irrigation infrastructure, invasive species, and vandalism name a few of the routine problems encountered by the Sacramento Tree Foundation’s NATURE program. In our experience, the benefits are worth the effort.

When facing these obstacles, we have learned to use our greatest asset: the people of Sacramento. When communities engage in the improvement of their local parks and open spaces a sense of ownership and stewardship is fostered. By planting native trees in the urban landscape, we create the opportunity to influence future oak enthusiasts while also creating a shady grove for the enjoyment of all. The recruitment of local volunteers, especially young people is at the core of the Tree Foundation’s mission. We strive to bring the community along in every aspect of our work: from collecting acorns, growing seeding, planting trees, and maintaining planting sites.

The NATURE program’s model of volunteer recruitment and urban forest stewardship can be applied to towns and cities across the nation. This presentation will exemplify what we have learned and gained from growing oaks in California’s City of Trees. Special attention will be given to the social and environmental benefits of native trees in an urban environment.