In my previous Master Gardener Blog, I took a “wonderful walk in the woods”. There I described the beauty, wonder and very practical creation of urban forests in Surrey, British Columbia and other Canadian cities. While researching this topic, I came upon a very exciting discovery: We have our own California Urban Forests Council!
The California Urban Forests Council, (CaUFC), was founded in 1968--the first urban forest council in the country. They are professionals associated with municipalities and public works, urban planning and design, arboriculture and the nursery industry, as well as community-based and public health organizations. The membership is widespread across a broad range of needs and visions.
This dedicated group advances smart investment in urban and community trees, parks and green spaces through outreach and education, as well as community-based activities and collaborative action. Their efforts support successful local, regional and statewide urban forestry programs, projects, often with other organizations. They also create and disseminate educational materials, offering research and professional expertise to encourage and empower California residents to participate in urban greening and forestry. They accomplish their efforts by working with local, state and regional leaders to improve public policy and support for urban and community forestry. In addition, they create new and continue existing public funding resources which support the management of trees and green spaces throughout the state.
As their Mission states, they “envision thriving and prosperous California communities transformed by healthy trees and green spaces: We advance smart investment in green infrastructure through education and outreach, community-based activities and collaborative actions.”
The Council is made up of seven regional councils: The Bay Area Urban; Sacramento Valley; San Joaquin; Inland; San Diego Regional; Street Tree; and Central Coast Urban Forest Councils. Each provides essential expertise and assistance to their respective regions. They also organize events and activities to help create responsive and beautiful communities. Among other activities, these councils are there to answer questions, organize workshops, host conferences, help plant trees, aid in professional development, fundraise, and host Arbor Day events.
As part of the outreach and educational efforts, the organization produces a monthly newsletter online. It's easy to sign up for this exciting resource, and what a delight to receive it in your inbox. Through the newsletter, one can keep up with the Councils' activities and there are always interesting and important volunteer opportunities just waiting to be had. Once again, California has led the way toward imaginative and important work. As for this blogger, just poking around while doing research for a blog has led to another valuable discovery.