Tacoma's Urban Forestry Program Saved from Budget Cut

Tacomas Urban Forestry Program Saved: Community Voice and Budget Trimming Lead to Victory

In a close call, Washington states Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urban forestry program faced elimination in the House appropriations budget. This program, crucial for maintaining city tree canopies, promoting tree equity, and handling urban planting and maintenance, was at risk of losing funding.

The News Tribune revealed the Houses proposal on March 1st, sparking local outcry. Tacomas urban forest manager, Mike Carey, expressed gratitude for the communitys efforts, which led to the proposals withdrawal on March 11th. Without funding, Tacomas DNR grants would have halted, jeopardizing ongoing tree projects.

Lawmakers saved the program by reallocating funds from greenhouse gas reduction projects in the capital budget. Representative Fitzgibbon highlighted the tough decisions made, such as skipping higher education projects, to prioritize essential initiatives like urban forestry.

As the future unfolds, advocates must work to shift urban forestry funding from the declining Climate Commitment Act to the states general fund, ensuring these green initiatives continue to thrive.

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